One of the most common everyday, and sport related, injuries is the sprained ankle. Whether it's high or low- the ankle sprain is a painful nuisance that can be prevented with simple balance training techniques that also improve ankle strength and range-of-motion.
Balance training is considered one of the most integral parts of any training or rehab program. Good balance leads to improved posture and aids in preventing a number of injuries much like the ankle sprain. Making sure that your body is able to react appropriately in critical situations is an effective way to prevent injury. To do so, improving signal transmissions to and from the central nervous system (proprioception) is a must. Fortunately, in today's market there are a number of inexpensive, easy-to-store products available. From balance boards to foam rollers, OPTP is your one-stop resource for quality products specifically designed to improve balance, proprioception, range-of-motion, as well as increase strength.
Balance Boards
Great for building ankle strength and increasing range-of-motion! OPTP's wobble boards come in many different shapes and sizes. Vladimir Janda, MD, regarded as one of the most influential authorities on balance training and neuromuscular development, created a 3-phase program for balance development. For the program, he designed three progressive balance tools- the Wooden Uniplane Rocker, the Wooden Wobble, and the Exercise Sandals. Phase one utilizes the Uniplane Rocker which provides sensory motor challenges; phase two uses the Wooden Wobble which requires greater control and increased neuromuscular challenge through multi-planar motion; and phase three uses the Exercise Sandals to introduce instability while walking.
You'll also find the Rock Ankle Exercise Board, Multi-Challenge Board, BOSU Balance Trainer, OPTP Pro Rotating Discs, and the Airex Balance Pad, plus more!
For more information, and to view our entire selection of balance products, resources and accessories click here.
The Foam Roller authority
OPTP has been providing the highest quality foam rollers to rehab and fitness professionals throughout the world for 30 years. We understand the daily demands placed on our foam rollers. That's why we have the largest selection of foam rollers for professionals to choose from. Whether it's our Standard family, AXIS family or Pro family - we have a foam roller that will meet your needs, exceed your expectations, and fit your budget. Our large variety of full-round and half-round foam rollers will provide you with plenty of choices for progressive balance and conditioning challenges. Plus, find necessary foam roller resource guides such as Foam Roller Techniques: for Massage, Stretches and Improved Flexibility, PRO-ROLLER Pilates Essentials, or Caroline Creager's, Therapeutic Exercises Using Foam Rollers.
For more information, and to view our entire selection of foam roller products, resources and accessories click here.
Swiss Exercise Balls
"Don't compromise quality or safety for inexpensive exercise balls."
Improve your balance while sitting at work! Gymnic Swiss exercise balls offer a fun, effective and versatile way to improve your balance and overall health. Sitting on these comfortable, brightly colored (or office appropriate) Swiss exercise balls actively engages core muscles, increases proprioception, and improves posture. (Doing so will also greatly reduce your risk of developing low back pain commonly associated with poor posture.) These Swiss exercise balls are ideal for a number of exercises that can be done at your office or home.
For more information, and to view our complete selection of Swiss exercise ball products, resources and accessories click here.
OPTP has published a variety of informational newsletters on this, and many other important topics. To view our newsletter archives click here: OPTP Newsletter Archives