Having good balance is a wonderful commodity when you are older. Good balance will help prevent falls, which will prevent any broken bones or possible concussions. As muscle mass dwindles our balance suffers, but can easily improve it by exercises that work the muscles responsible for balance. Here are four exercises that will do just that:
Do the Flamingo
You guessed it, standing on one leg will help your balance. You can do this at any time of day as you are waiting in line at the store, while you are at work, or just watching TV. Aim for 30 seconds on each side and repeat three times.
Tai Chi
Doing this will not only make you better balanced physically but it can also help to alleviate stress, making you more balance emotionally. This is a type of martial arts that uses slow, methodical motions, along with deep breathing. It began as a form of self-defense but now is used in many who are looking for a more gently approach to exercise. This is a low impact way to increase the strength in your stabilizing muscles and improve your balance.
Chair Pose It
To do this simply sit down on a chair as you regularly would. Gently lift your body up about 2 inches off the chair using your core muscles and your legs to keep you up. Place your hands out in front of your shoulders with the palms facing each other for more help with balance. Hold this move for 20 seconds, then relax and sit back down. Repeat this motion ten times.
One-Legged Dead Lift
This move doesn’t sound very nice but it is actually a great way to improve your balance. Start off with the first move mentioned, by standing on your right foot. Next, bend at the hips and bring your arms down to the sides of your foot, keeping your knee straight and the other leg swinging slightly behind you. Repeat ten times on each side.
