We rely on our sense of balance for pretty much everything we do. From getting out of the bed in the morning and getting dressed to getting ourselves to work, we simply couldn’t manage without it. It’s essential.
But don’t take it for granted. As we age or recover from injury – our sense of balance can often be put out, leaving our bodies prone to further injury, or worse.
You might be asking yourself – is it possible to have better balance?
Well, the answer is yes. It is.
How balance works
Before we get into the tricks of the trade, it’s good to know how this whole balance thing works. Our bodies have different systems that work together to create our sense of balance.
Musculoskeletal system
Made up of all our muscles, joints, bones, and ligaments, the body’s musculoskeletal system ensures we can stand up straight and find our centre of gravity.
Vestibular system
This sensory system combining our inner ear and visual aids provides the brain with important information about our surroundings, movement, and orientation. It basically keeps our bodies in check – allowing us to keep balance and know what position we are currently in.
If you were hanging upside down – you would know, thanks to your vestibular system.
Have I got bad balance?
It’s a question that your physio will need to answer for you, but there are some warning signs you should keep an eye out for:
- Unusual dizziness
- Wobbly legs or unsteadiness
- Feeling faint or lightheaded
- Spatial issues, trouble to see straight
- Unusual clumsiness or falls
*If you experience any of the following you should immediately contact your healthcare professional or Physio Perth.
7 exercise to improve balance
What’s the saying? No pain – no gain. This adage holds true for balance-related exercises. The best way to get better balance is actually by challenging the systems that create your sense of balance. Here are 7 ways to do just that:
1. Tree-pose
- Begin this exercise with both feet firmly together on the ground (mountain pose) and hands firmly down by your side.
- Bending your right knee – bring your right foot up and place it on your left leg (either above or below the knee). For beginners you may find placing your foot lower is helpful at first.
- Ensure your toes are facing down and your tailbone is facing the floor.
- Slowly bring your arms up to your chest – or for an extension connect your palms above your head.
- Repeat with the opposite side.
This exercise is a great way to start any workout routine, or morning! It centres the body and strengthens your legs in the process.
2. One-legged crunch
- Balancing on one leg, bring your hovering knee up until it’s at a right angle (or as far up as you can go).
- Bring your hands up above your head and clap as high as you can reach.
- Swing your hands down and clap underneath your raised leg as you