Balance is used in daily functions such as walking and going up and down stairs. Practicing and maintaining good balance can make these daily functions easier and prevent falls, especially as people age. Balance training is considered a main form of physical activity, along with aerobic and strength training activities. There are many ways to train balance. Try a few of the exercises below.
Suggested Equipment: Sturdy chair and step
Workout Directions: Repeat each exercise 8-12 times, complete circuit 2-3 times, two times per week on non-consecutive days. Breathe throughout each activity, do not hold your breath. Inhale on the easy part and exhale on the hard part. Tighten abdominal muscles and maintain core strength during activities.
Participating in this activity is purely voluntary. If you are not regularly active, it is recommended to consult with a physician before starting physical activity.
Source:
- Physical Activity, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd Edition, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
- Balance Exercise, American Heart Association
Feedback Form
Feedback Form
If you do not see the article, please scroll up the page.
The Nutrition Education Program (NEP) delivers evidence-based nutrition education and obesity prevention interventions through a combination of education strategies coupled with multi-level community changes that occur within the environment to promote healthy eating and active lifestyles.
This material was funded by USDA's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP and Expanded Food & Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP).