How Exercise Can Help With Balance

Wednesday, May 13, 2015 |

As a person ages, the importance of developing and maintaining a good sense of balance becomes very important for good health and quality of life. Preventing falls and maintaining general good health is essential. An active lifestyle offered by a senior living community in Broomfield can make the process more successful and more fun.

Building the Right Muscles

What is balance? It is the ability of the body to compensate for instabilities. In other words, if the goal of exercise is to become more stable and therefore increase balance, one needs to strengthen the muscles that act as stabilizers. Building those muscles, especially in legs, hips, and core, allows individuals to overcome instabilities that occur when standing, walking, and moving.

Improved Functionality for Activities of Daily Living

In addition to building the right muscles, exercise prepares the body for the activities in which people participate in on a daily basis. Exercise can mimic and prepare people for walking, climbing stairs, lifting or carrying objects, moving from standing, sitting, and laying positions, or stepping over something. By preparing the body for these movements and motions in a safe, stable environment, individuals increase the likelihood of remaining uninjured when performing these actions in daily life.

Build Strength and Resistance to Fall-Related Injuries

As adults age, the likelihood of falls increases, and the consequences of taking a fall can be much more severe. Obviously, the best way to avoid these negative consequences is to prevent falls altogether, and improving balance is a great way to work towards that goal. Sometimes, however, even with the best intentions, a fall can occur, and the more fit an individual is, the better their body will be able to handle the impact. Stronger muscles and bones developed through regular exercise can decrease injuries and boost recovery time.

Some Exercises to Start With

Since exercise is important for balance and health, where is one to start? Basic core exercises, simple balancing activities, and functional movements that mimic actions taken in daily life can help individuals build a stronger foundation.