GoFit Core Disk and Training DVD

This disk is great for different core and other stability exercises for the shoulders, hips, ankles, etc. I really like the "reflexology" side that massages your feet while you exercise - double the benefit. It's a bit like those massaging shoes so you may or may not enjoy that side. It's also very good just to sit on in your office chair to provide some hip and core movement while sitting and remind you to have good posture. I've been using it this way and periodically stand on it or do one leg exercises during the day. I plan to keep one at the office and get another one for home. In pictures, these types of disks look like they are not challenging but in person they definitely are if you try all the exercises, e.g., just basic lunges or calf stretch/raises are quite hard due to the extra balance effort involved. For the simple calf raises, I can make it very difficult just by holding my other leg higher in the air in various directions. Also, I immediately added air (maybe too much) after purchasing to make the exercises more difficult. I thought (probably wrongly) that the default state might be too easy.

Note that the included DVD by Mark Verstegen is excellent and probably provides a significant advantage over alternative products. The exercises he shows can also be done without the disk if they are too difficult. See one of his sites for some free examples to get some ideas of what is possible and what kind of "core" and "pillar" training one should incorporate. I've also had good experiences with other GoFit products and items associated with Core Performance or Athlete's Performance. See my review of his book for more info. I haven't tried a wobble board and I've only briefly tried the Bosu and just standing on a regular gym ball (after seeing this on tv - very difficult). I cannot really compare the difficulty or effectiveness of using those types of equipment vs. this one. I am quite happy with the Core Disk so far, though, so I probably will stick to it. It seems more multidirectional and should be challenging my balance for a long time. I feel various muscles I didn't know I had working to try to stabilize my body in all directions just standing on it. If I feel my balance is getting "too good" (not likely), I'll start adding some light weights or a weight vest or toss a medicine ball while doing the various balance exercises. That should make this disk a great investment for as long as it lasts. The price was definitely another plus. It is also small enough to take on trips and can be inflated/deflated with a standard bicycle pump (a needle is included with the disk).

Bottom line: whether you're a weekend warrior, or you're getting older and worried about your balance, this disk will help you improve, whatever your fitness goal or current routine may be.

This product fit the bill for me in seeking something like a wobble-board, but not quite as difficult. It is a partially-inflated cushion (with the usual air hole to add or remove air) with a smooth side and a nubby side, made of strong plastic. It can be used standing on one or both feet, and the enclosed, well-made DVD provides many useful additional exercise suggestions for other parts of the body.

This disk is not for the very obese or people just starting to exercise. I am over 45 and purchased this to get my balance back. Even while trying to stand on the disk and trying to keep steady I can feel my leg and stomach muscles working. Have a chair close by to help steady yourself in the beginning while trying to stand on the disk. It will be quite awhile before I am able to do half of the exercises demonstrated. The disk is great to put under your back while lying on the floor to stretch aching back muscles.

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