Balance is something that everyone takes for granted until they lose it. It is important in more ways than some people may think. For example, balance not only helps improve posture in individuals but also helps prevent the risk of falls for all ages. Balance can also help those who struggle with orthopedic limitations and help the recovery time for those with injuries.

When Does Your Balance Start to Deteriorate? 
The average adult’s balance starts to deteriorate at the age of 40-50. Statistics show that 1 in 3 people will fall over the age of 65. Among other reasons such as past injuries, medical conditions or medications, balance can start to deteriorate because as we age, the main receptors in our brain begin to slow down and can‘t focus as quickly as they had before. Is there a way to improve our balance? Absolutely. Doing exercises to work on it can help us maintain our balance because balance is a “use it or lose it” skill. It can get better with practice.

Ways to Improve Balance 
There are many simple things that can be done to maintain balance throughout life. For the younger set, a great way to practice balance is by walking on uneven surfaces. This could be in gravel, sand, a hill, or anywhere else where you may find uneven surfaces.  You can also practice balancing by walking on your tip toes or walking heel to toe. Here are some simple balance exercises for the less confident to practice at home. Whenever you do balance exercises, don’t forget to hold on to a chair, cabinet or wall if you are unsteady. You never want to risk falling. 

Tightrope – 1. Lay a piece of string on your floor in a straight line. 2. Hold your arms out wide to the sides. 3. Walk on the string (heel-toe) without stepping off to the side. 4. Walk 15-20 steps. 

The Flamingo – 1. Holding on to the back of a sturdy chair, stand on your left leg with your right leg lifted. 2.  Stretch your right leg forward while maintaining good posture by keeping your spine, neck, and head in one line. 3. Hold for up to 15 seconds and then do the opposite side. 

 Additionally, scheduling a Fitness Assessment with one of our Personal Trainers would be a great opportunity to complete a Functional Movement Screening and see just how well you are doing!