Enhance Your Stability with These Exercises
Earlier this week we posted a challenge on instagram for people to test their balance skills and use some simple moves to improve their stability in standing. If you missed our post I’ll link it below:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8CPzqWOylU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Oftentimes people think “Oh I am young and at a low risk for falls so I don’t need to work on my balance”. However, choosing exercises that challenge your balance can be a great way to challenge your core, hips and ankles so that you can prevent things like low back pain, ankle sprains, and knee pain.
There are a variety of ways you can challenge your balance without having a lot of equipment or changing your workout that much.
First, try some of the following balance challenges when you’re standing in line at the store or brushing your teeth. If you feel nervous about falling you can also try these with your back near a corner in the wall, that way if you were to fall you have support.
Single Leg Standing
Tandem Stance
Second, try doing the above but close your eyes.
If that’s feeling easy you can try to close your eyes then turn your head from side to side or up and down to really challenge your balance.
If you’d like to just incorporate some balance into your current exercise routine you can try standing on unstable surfaces using a rolled up yoga mat, soft pad, or pillow.
These are just some easy ways to incorporate balance into your day to day routine and workouts. So next time you find yourself just standing around, give them a try.
If you are struggling with balance issues or fear of falling don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at Move + Smart and find out how we can help you move with confidence!
Written by: Kelsey Karnes PT, DPT
