How to Improve Your Balance
Once you reach a certain age, balance may become less of a priority for you. You're probably doing less tree-climbing, fewer tricks on your skateboard, and your time scurrying around on a jungle gym is probably more limited. However, even as an adult, maintaining good physical balance is a survival skill that we need to sharpen. It can lead to better mobility, improved overall fitness, and fewer injuries. Unfortunately, the older we get, the more difficult that becomes, as our muscles slowly start to weaken after the age of 30 or so. Therefore, we've compiled a list (which you'll find below) of a few ways to help enhance your balance, at any age:
Regularly perform balance-improving exercises.
Assuming that your lack of coordination is not due to any sort of underlying illness, then regularly practicing certain exercises may greatly improve your balance. Experts recommend that you spend about ten minutes each day working on them. Some good ones include:
- One-legged stands- This one is fairly self-explanatory. Balance on one foot for about 30 seconds, and then switch to the other foot. You may want to grip the back of a chair or place one hand against a wall to provide yourself with some stability until you feel comfortable.
- Heel raises- Standing in a stationary position, lift your weight up onto your toes and maintain that position for about 10 seconds. Repeat 10-20 times.
- Sit-to-stands- Sit in a chair, with your feet firmly planted on the ground. Then, without using your hands, pull yourself into a standing position.
Take a class
Certain classes, such as yoga or tai-chi, focus much of their attention on your inner strength and balance. Yoga can help you to concentrate a more distinct line of communication between your mind and your body, which ultimately can help you to maintain a more acute awareness of where your body is and how it works. This can eventually help you to improve your balance and coordination.
Consider chiropractic care.
When a person is experiencing problems with their balance, there is a good chance that their overall alignment is out of whack. For instance, their pelvis could be slightly misaligned with their back and, because of over-compensation, this can lead to a lack of balance and coordination. Regular chiropractic adjustments may help to remedy this problem. If you are interested in pursuing chiropractic care in order to improve your balance, consider stopping into The Joint for a consultation. With their knowledgable staff, their affordable prices, and their convenient walk-in hours, they can assist you with all of your chiropractic needs.
