They are exercises specially designed to work your balance system in certain ways. This could be changing your support while standing, or strengthening the muscles that get you our of a chair, or making it harder to balance in many ways. Challenges might be extending your trunk and arms in opposite directions, or balancing on one leg while moving the other one to different places, or standing with your feet together – eyes open or closed, or pretending to walk on a tightrope.
A physiotherapist is skilled at judging exactly the right exercises for you, to work your balance while making sure you don’t actually fall while doing them. The more challenging the exercise the more it builds your balance. More advanced balance exercises can include multi-tasking such as having a conversation, holding an object or throwing/catching while performing the exercise.
Sounds like fun? Yes, most people would agree and your balance will gradually improve if you have 3-4 sessions per week. Physiotherapists can recommend the best balance exercises for you, and get you started today on our own tailored program.
It’s a good idea to check with your GP or allied health professional prior to exercising even if you have no concerns, but essential if you have symptoms or concerns while exercising.