The Importance of Balancing on One Foot
The simple, yet complex topic of being able to stand and balance one foot. Researchers have been studying the links between balance and brain health. The inability to balance on one foot for at least 10 seconds can be an early indicator of other health problems, and an indicator of potential life span.
Being able to hold your balance on one foot for 10-20 seconds without holding on to anything is linked to an overall increased level of physical ability, a decreased risk of falls, and improved quality of life. Balancing requires both mobility and stability in a variety of ways. Walking and running both require an ability to balance, and push off with one leg at a time. When we lose our ability to balance, walking becomes more and more difficult.
Neurological issues can impact the ability to balance, however strength is the main component required to balance. Balancing requires:
-foot and ankle stability
-core stability
-hip and gluteus strength
-mental focus
Try building these simple balancing exercises into your everyday routine.
-Get out of bed in the morning, and test your balance right away.
-Brush your teeth while standing on one foot.
-Put on your socks and shoes from standing, rather than sitting down.
If you think your balance is bad, don’t give up and settle for that mindset. Practice. Find time and ways to work on your balance daily.
Check out the free short video on my YouTube channel, Natalie’s Core Yoga, join me for a class, book a private session, and watch for my new additions to my video library.
Just keep moving.
Namasté.
Natalie
