For average person, getting setup on ball, in proper position for crunches, is a relatively easy affair. It merely involves resting your hips and lower back on ball while planting your feet squarely on floor. It's like slouching in a chair that has no back. Like I said, really no big deal – unless your me.

I finally nailed proper setup and once laughter subsided, I was ready to start. Like all exercises, form is critical. Crunches require very little motion. To begin, lean back as far as your balance allows. Place your hands on your temples with your elbows out. Focus on pushing your lower back into ball and using your abs pull your shoulders up. In very real terms, you should only be raising your shoulders up about four inches. At top of crunch. Hold it for a two count and slowly let yourself back down slowly without disengaging your abs. Repeat. It's really a simple and effective exercise.

In my case, now firmly set up on ball, I went at crunches with gusto. Crunched until I simply could crunch no more. It is here that I would like to point out that you need not do this. You should work your abs in sets as with any other muscle baring in mind that you should do more then your average set. Aim for about three sets of fifty and go from there.

In my case, I woke up next day smiling to myself about difficulty I had getting used to fitness ball, after all, it really was easy once I got hang of it. I smiled as I recalled my impressive display of abdominal endurance. I smiled, and smiled right up until time I tried to sit up.

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Stress is determined by what an individual perceives as stressful. The answer to balance lies in not taking things personally and finding ways to relax mind and body. There have been many infomercials and advertisements touting benefits of their “snake oil” to lower cortisol levels. Let me assure you, none of these claims are true and some of these marketers of these products are now facing indictments and large civil lawsuits. After talking with several physicians answer is always same, manage your physical and emotional stress levels. This can be achieved through, meditation, massage, long walks, deep breathing exercises, Yoga, Tai Chi, basically anything relaxing and of course spending time with people who comfort you. By practicing these relaxation methods you will be able to bring your cortisol levels down. This coupled with a healthy balanced diet and exercise will result in a long life and slim physique.