Easy Ways To Improve Balance.

 

Sorry about this past Monday.  I didn't get a blog entry done because I was off traveling and my computer totally died.  So I am sorry about that. Today, we are looking at some easy ways to improve balance. The systems responsible for helping us maintain balance can be affected by aging or by certain medicines.  In addition, there are some health problems such as a stroke, arthritis, etc that can cause us to be unsteady.

There are things you can do to improve balance as you age.  If you walk, run, or climb stairs you are already strengthening your lower body but if you do have issues, look at getting a stair stepper to work on balance. 

Consider stretching your muscles which helps with posture and balance or look at including yoga in your regular workout so you can challenge both static and dynamic balance skills.  Throw in some tai chi because the shifting weight from one foot to another, twisting the trunk, and extending your limbs provides the body with certain challenges that help increase balance.

In addition, there are some simple exercises one can incorporate into your daily workout to help improve balance. They are recommended by the NHS.  One is to step sideways. To do this, have both feet next to each other with your weight equally balanced.  Move one foot out to the side and balance again, then move the other foot to join the one you just moved.  Repeat this 10 times in each direction or do it across the room and back. 

Try a simple grapevine. You remember that move from dancing?  You start by balancing equally on both feet.  Take you left foot out to the side and then place weight on it.  Take the right foot and move it to the front of the left foot, balance before moving the left foot out again and take the right foot and move it behind the left. Repeat across the room and back.

Practice heel to toe walking which is exactly what it sounds like.  You step forward by placing the left heel in front of the right toe.  Then take the right heel and place it in front of the left toe.  Repeat across the room.  This one requires your body use a lot of muscles to maintain your balance.

There is a one leg stand.  In this one you face the wall about an arms length away so your finger tips can touch if needed. Lift your right leg, and balance for 5 to 10 seconds before placing the right foot down and lifting the left leg up. Repeat and do 3 on each side.

These simple exercises can help you stop any deterioration in balance and get it back.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.