Mark and Brian are with us to delve into a topic that we may not often think about but is crucial for a healthy and injury-free life—balance. We’ll explore the importance of balance, why everyone needs it, and walk you through some exercises you can try at home.
The Importance of Balance
Balance is essential, whether you’re an athlete, a child, or in your golden years. Everyone can be at risk of accidents from tripping and falling, and everything we do involves balance, from standing up from a chair to maneuvering around in the dark. If your balance is lacking, you’re susceptible to injuries in your shoulders, hips, and back. More severe injuries can set you back for a long time.
One significant health epidemic is the number of falls leading to hip fractures, which can have devastating consequences, especially for older adults. It’s often not the fall itself that becomes life-threatening, but the complications afterward, such as long hospital stays. What many don’t realize is that the majority of these falls are due to weakness rather than tripping over objects, like a loose rug.
Redefining Balance
In most people’s minds, balance is often perceived as the ability to stand still without falling. However, true balance is about controlling motion. It’s about being on one leg while walking and maintaining balance as the other foot steps forward. To have excellent balance is to move confidently in different directions, which can contribute significantly to a longer, happier life.
Exercise and Strengthening
Brian is here to share exercises that can help build the strength necessary for improving your balance. The goal is to not only prevent falls but ensure you move more confidently. Strong muscles are key to maintaining balance, and regularly practicing balance exercises can help you lead an active lifestyle at any age.
Mark will be the patient today in our demonstration because at 73, he is in the age group where balance issues are more prevalent. It’s vital to engage in activities and exercises that promote strength and stability, regardless of our age. Brian will guide us through some practical exercises that you can easily do at home.
Make sure you subscribe to our YouTube channel to follow along with the movements we will be discussing and sharing over the next few weeks on this topic.
For more advice on maintaining balance and strength, feel free to reach out to us at fitnessforlifept.com. Stay strong and balanced, everyone!