10 Best Balance Exercises To Stay Active & Mobile
The article “10 Best Balance Exercises to Stay Active & Mobile” highlights exercises designed to improve stability, prevent falls, and maintain mobility, especially as we age. Incorporating these exercises into a regular routine can contribute significantly to overall well-being.
1. Standing on One Leg: Start by holding onto a chair for support. Lift one foot off the ground and balance on the other leg for 30 seconds. Switch sides. As you progress, try this exercise without support.
2. Heel-to-Toe Walk: Place your heel directly in front of the toe of the opposite foot each time you take a step. Your heel and toe should touch or almost touch with each step, creating a straight line walk.
3. Balance Walk: Raise arms to sides, shoulder height. Choose a spot ahead of you and walk straight towards it with one foot in front of the other, ensuring that your heel touches the toes of your back foot with each step.
4. Leg Swings: Hold onto a chair or counter for balance. Swing your leg forward and backward without bending your knee too much. Repeat with the other leg.
5. Side Leg Raise: Holding onto a chair for support, lift one leg out to the side while keeping your back straight and toe facing forward. Keep your other leg slightly bent at the knee.
6. Back Leg Raises: Using a chair for support, lift one leg straight back without bending your knee or pointing your toes. Hold for a moment then slowly return your leg to the starting position.
7. Wall Push-ups: Stand an arm’s length in front of a wall with feet shoulder-width apart. Lean forward and place hands flat on the wall at shoulder height, then push yourself back to standing.
8. Balance on a Wobble Board or Cushion: Use a balance board or cushion on the floor and stand on it with feet shoulder-width apart. Balance for as long as possible then switch feet if standing with one foot.
9. Tai Chi or Yoga: These practices involve slow, deliberate movements and can improve stability and mental focus which aid in balance.
10. Grapevine Walking Exercise: Walk sideways by crossing one foot over the other both in front of you and behind you in an alternating pattern, while keeping up with a steady pace.
Regularly practicing these exercises can enhance coordination and core strength leading to improved stability and reduced risk of falls among all age groups. It’s important to do these exercises consistently for best results.