Balance Exercises Can Help Prevent Falls

March 2017

Each year, more than one-third of people age 65 or older fall, according to the National Institutes of Health. Balance exercises, along with certain strength exercises, can help prevent falls by improving your ability to control and maintain your body’s position.

These five exercises can help improve your balance and your lower-body strength:

  • Standing on one foot
  • Walking heel to toe
  • Balance walk
  • Back leg raises
  • Side leg raises

You can do balance exercises almost anytime, anywhere and as often as you like, as long as you have something sturdy nearby to hold onto if you become unsteady. In the beginning, using a chair or the wall for support will help you work on your balance. Keep safety in mind. Talk with your doctor if you are unsure about doing a particular exercise.

Source: National Institutes of Health

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