I’ve always wished I had a flatter tummy. Especially after recently having a baby, I wish that even more. I know by eating healthy and exercising I could eventually achieve a flatter tummy, but thanks to the Family Review Network and Bender Ball, I may get a flatter tummy a lot quicker!
According to the website, “The secret to great results is the Bender Method of Core Training … developed by master trainer Leslee Bender. Each of Leslee's ab sculpting moves puts you in the perfect position for results. Combined with her effective method of selective stabilization, it cranks up the intensity and targets the muscles you want from all sides.”
The Bender Ball set (Bender Method Kit) includes a DVD, ($12.98 for the DVD or $9.99 for the VHS), Bender Ball, 2 straws and 2 plugs.
The ball was easy to inflate, but keeping it inflated while I inserted the plug was a bit difficult. It actually took me three tries. Although the instructions state to quickly remove the straw and cover the hole with your thumb and then insert the plug, that didn’t work for me. I ended up removing the straw and then I immediately inserted the plug, and that kept my ball inflated and firm. Also, it deflates after a couple of days of use, so whenever I do the exercises I check to see if have to inflate it again, but it only takes a few quick moments to re-inflate if needed.
There are 2 videos on the DVD—The Bender Method of Core Training and The Bender Method of Buns and Thighs.
The Core Training section focuses on your abs and has 3 levels you can view with or without instructions. I began with Level 1, and even at this level I could feel the burn! I thought to myself “If I was already feeling the burn at this level, will I even survive the next levels?” I successfully completed level 1 and I knew I really worked my abdominal muscles, and it was on to Level 2.
Level 2 did a bit of the same moves, along with some others, and the intensity was indeed stronger. I even had to pause a few times, especially when the exercises called for pulsing—I would REALLY feel the burn during the pulses!
Level 3 was yet even more intense, but I knew I was really strengthening my core and working my abdominal muscles really hard. I admit I had to pause several times again, and at times I just caught my breath, lied on the floor, and simply watched the exercises being done.
The Core Training really gave my ab muscles a grueling workout, and I knew the Buns and Thighs section would be tough to do as well.
As expected, the Buns and Thighs section was just as intense. Again, there were a few times when I had to do the modified, easier versions of the exercises or even pause and catch a breath, but I could feel the burn in my thighs and buns and I knew I was getting a good workout.
I have done many of these exercises before without the Bender Ball, and I can honestly say the Bender Ball makes a big difference. You really have to focus on balance and your core, which in turn targets your muscles more efficiently, and you have a wider range of extension when you do the ab work, so you'll see results quicker. I love that each section on the DVD averages about 20 minutes long, so fitting in the exercises, even on hectic days, is doable—I can easily do the exercises while the little ones are asleep! And I know eventually I will be able to complete each section without having to pause as I strengthen my various muscles more and more. (As with any exercise program, be sure to consult your physician or health care provider).
The Bender Ball also comes in a Total Core Training Kit which includes 3 additional videos (Advanced Core Training, Strong Healthy Back, and Selective Core Training), and you can also order specific videos and exercise accessories through the website.
I have only done the Bender Method of exercises a few times, but I plan to do them at least 4 times a week to help me get fitter, stronger, and give me more energy (to help me keep up with the two little ones!). I know with dedication and a healthy diet I will see spectacular results, and my wish of a flatter tummy will finally be granted!
Thank you to Bender Ball for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.
There have been many, many times when my toddler would start using his hands during meal time, and then the inevitable would happen--he'd touch his shirt and pants, or food would spill all over him. Whenever this happened I'd always tell myself I need to find a full-body bib...and I finally found one--L'il Darlins’ Bib-A-Roo . 
