This month, we’re kicking off the new year by focusing on fitness and the four types of exercises your body needs! I’ll take you through all four types this month – which are Strength, Endurance, Balance, and Flexibility. This week we’ll cover Balance!
Being steady on your own two feet (or one) is what balance is all about. With poor balance, you're more likely to struggle with daily movements, fall often and injure yourself more than others. It keeps you steady going up or down stairs, walking on slippery surfaces and being safe on uneven surfaces....just to name a few!
WHAT IS BALANCE TRAINING?
Balance training is maintaining control of your centre of gravity and improving your stability on your feet. It includes exercising to strengthen your legs and core, as these are the main muscle groups that keep you upright while sitting, standing, or moving.
This type of training can include doing moves on one foot or leg, yoga, tai chi, etc...
WHY SHOULD YOU DO BALANCE TRAINING?
Reduce / Prevent Falls
While you’re more likely to fall as you get older, injuries don’t discriminate by age. Balance training at any age can keep you safer from taking a nasty tumble as well as set you up for better stability in your later years.
Better Coordination
Even if yours sucks now, you can train it to get better! Balance training requires your entire body to work together, otherwise you will fall or stumble. Improved coordination during balance training will be transferred into coordination in everyday life.
Joint Stability
We have many joints and they all get wear and tear, but that doesn't mean they have to be weak! Balance training promotes stables knees, ankles, hips, and shoulders. This can prevent a large array of injuries including sprained ankles and serious knee problems.
Balance is important at any age but even more helpful as we get older. Stick around this week, I'll be posting a workout video for balance training!