Exercise is important for everyone, regardless of age. However, as you get older, it becomes increasingly crucial to keep your body in tiptop condition and lower the risk of developing certain health conditions. If you are looking for balance exercises you can try out from the comfort of your own home, read on for some of our top recommendations.
Keep These Best Practices in Mind
Before starting any exercise, it will help to determine which leg is your dominant leg and if you tend to put more weight on one leg than another when standing. You may wish to start each exercise with your non-dominant leg so that when you switch around, it will be much easier. Always try to maintain good posture while holding the position, and keep your feet farther apart if you are having trouble balancing.
Start Out Simple
You don’t want to dive right in with challenging positions when first starting out. Try out these simple positions first:
- Position your feet hip-width apart and shift your weight entirely onto one foot. Raise the other foot, and hold this position for 30 seconds. Slowly put your foot down and repeat on the other side. Do the same 3 times with each foot.
- With your feet still hip-width apart, extend your arms to the sides. Slowly lift one foot off the floor and bring your heel towards your bottom. Hold the position for 30 seconds before doing the same with the other foot and doing 3 repetitions on each side.
Improving Posture
Having the right posture can make a big difference when it comes to balancing. Below are some exercises to try out:
- With your hands on a wall, shift your weight onto one foot and lift your other foot up into the air. Hold the position for 5 seconds, repeat the same exercise 10 times, and do the same with the other side.
- Shift your weight onto one foot and place your foot against your ankle or thigh. Place your hands in a comfortable position, hold for 1 minute, and switch to the opposite side.
- With your heels against a wall, place your left foot in front of your right foot, touching your left heel to the toes on your right. Repeat for 20 steps.
Make the Move to Comfortable Retirement Living at The Summit
Do you find it hard to stay motivated while aging in place? You may not have the amenities you require, or you may be feeling socially isolated and unable to get where you need to be. Regardless of whether independent living or assisted living will best suit your needs, we have a range of lifestyle programs to suit you at The Summit, and you can be assured that you are in safe hands with us. Please feel free to schedule a tour of our stylish campus today, where we will be happy to treat you to a complimentary lunch and show you around.
