Eat the Ball

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Number of Repetitions:   Perform 5 cycles each day for 4 weeks.

Goal:        To be able to accurately focus on and follow the ball as it comes to the nose. To be able to move the two sides of the body at the same time, while keeping the head still. To perform the exercise in a smooth and coordinated manner.

 

Exercise:         

1. Place a different colored ball in each hand to assist the eyes in following each hand.

  1. Lie on back with the left arm straight out to side and the left leg straight down. Right arm should be bent so that hand is near the head. Right leg should be bent (leg on floor) so that foot is resting near the opposite knee. Head is turned to the left, ear on the floor, eyes looking at left hand (Figure 1).
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Figure 1

  1. Smoothly and in a coordinated manner, the left side will straighten as the right side bends. The head will keep still as the right hand bends and comes toward the face as if “eating the ball.” Eyes should focus on the ball at all times as this movement occurs (Figure 2).
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Figure 2

  1. Bring head to center. Tuck chin and lift head to look at toes. Hold for 5 seconds (Figure 3).
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Figure 3

  1. Lay head back on the floor and turn it so that it is now looking at the right side (Figure 4).
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  1. Repeat steps 3 and 4 to the right side (1 complete cycle).
  1. If there is difficulty moving arm and leg at the same time for the first week move the arm first, followed by the leg.

 

Observations: 

  • Unable to keep head still while arms and legs are moving.

  • Unable to focus on and follow the ball as hand comes inward.

  • Difficulty keeping arms or legs still during head raise.

  • Difficulty keeping arms in legs in the proper position (arms straight out to sides.

  • Unable to move both sides of the body at the same time.

  • Unable to move arms at the same time as the legs.

  • Movements are choppy, not smooth and coordinated.

  • Holding breath.

Observe and record any of the above difficulties. If any of these occur, then redirect, guide and assist in the proper technique.