1. When Should I Begin Balance Training?
Ask the NIFS Expert…
When Should I Begin Balance Training?
In a word: Now! It’s never too early or too late to begin working on your balance. According to the American Council on Exercise, 35%-45% of otherwise healthy adults over the age of 65 fall at least once per year. While balance training isn’t guaranteed to prevent falls, it certainly does help to lower your risk.
Some tips on how to begin:
Start with a balance test. This isn’t a
requirement ,but it is a nice place to begin
for any balance program. A balance test
can give you a great summary of where your strengths and weaknesses lie as well as giving you a good direction for your balance training. Once you’ve been practicing for a while, re-take the test to see how much you’ve improved!
Consult an expert. Talk to your NIFS staff member(s) or a physical therapist to get some personalized exercises that address your weaknesses in balance.
Jump right in. Start with practicing your exercises at least 3 days per week and work up from there.
Take it up a level. Once you get the hang of some simple balance exercises, try combining several concepts at once. For example, instead of just trying to balance on one foot, try to do some bicep curls or head turns while balancing on one foot. This will make the exercise a little more challenging and will develop your balance skills.
For more information about this topic, please speak with the
NIFS expert at your community fitness center.