The value of medicine balls, like the Valeo Body Ball, is that it targets your core strength which is the area that includes your back and your abs.

Strengthening your core will directly fortify the joints in your elbows, shoulders, and knees, thus providing more raw power for your arms and legs. So to put that old training tool back to use, and try these abdominal exercises with the use of the medicine ball.

LEG RAISES: Get flat on your back and place your arms by your sides. Holding the medicine ball between your lower legs, slowly raise the ball until your legs are arched upward at an angle of 45 degrees (or approximately two feet off the floor). Slowly bring your legs (and the ball) back toward the floor as you squeeze your abs, stopping just an inch or two before hitting the floor. Repeat the motion for as many repetitions as you can.

SIT-UPS: Bend your knees slightly, keeping your feet flat on the floor as you lie on your back. Holding the medicine ball directly out in front of you, slowly lift your shoulders off the floor, lifting your upper torso until it’s bent at a 45-degree angle. Slowly let your back drop down to the floor before repeating this motion as many times as you can.