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But once you hit a certain age, finding balance (literally) isnt always a given.
Movement of all kinds takes balance, she explains.
There are also more specific exercises someone can do with the purpose of improving balance.
personal trainer and the American Council on Exercise senior director of science and research
6 balance exercises for seniors
1.
This may seem like an obvious one, but its really helpful, Jo says.
Stand with your feet together, holding onto a chair or the wall with one hand if needed.
Slowly lift your left knee up to bring your foot off the ground.
Hold for 30 seconds.
Then, put your left foot back on the ground and repeat on the right side.
Start in a standing position with your feet very close to each other, Jo says.
Then, start to walk forward slowly, placing one foot directly in front of the other.
Jo says this exercise helps with perception.
personal trainer and the American Council on Exercise senior director of science and research
If you do this exercise regularly, it becomes something thats engrained that your body does without realizing it.
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This requires whats called gait training, which is regaining your balance during locomotive activities.
She explains stepping forward or back is typically how balance is regained, which is whylunges can help.
Start by standing with your feet pointing straight ahead, knees straight, and hips facing forward.
Place your hands on your hips.
Step forward with one foot.
Your back knee should not touch the floor.
Step feet together and return to the standing neutral start position.
Repeat with the other foot.
To do this move, start with your feet hip-width apart, with your arms down by your side.
Keep your gaze forward as you lower your body.
Then, slowly rise back up to a standing position.
Repeat this move for 30 seconds.
Watch the below video to see how to do a squat correctly:
5.
(She uses small cones and bean bags with her clients.)
Being fatigued can lead to coordination problems.
She says aerobic classes and activities (such as walking) can help because they build up cardiovascular stamina.
This is one form of exercise that indirectly helps with balance, Jo says.
(In this case, stop the exercise and seek out a medical professional.)
Last, have fun!
Whatever form of movement and exercises you choose to do should be enjoyable.
Find a form of exercise that really speaks to you and go from there.
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