Importance of Balance

When exercising, we rarely think about balance, but it is a very important part. I've tried to be more conscience about focusing a little more on my balance. Sometimes I'll to curls while standing on one foot, or simly just stand and walk on a beam. I recently read an article online in which Harvey W. Wallmann, a doctor of physical therapy science and an associate professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, talks about the importance of balance in everday life. He said, "you use balance all the time, picking up children, stepping up on a curb, or walking over rocks." Some suggestions he gives to improve balance are:

Single-leg stand.
Stand with your legs slightly less than shoulder-width apart near a support such as a wall or railing. Balance as you lift one leg, and then close your eyes. Maintain your balance for 30 to 60 seconds, and repeat with the other leg.

Trunk turns.
Stand with your legs slightly wider than shoulder-width apart on a mini trampoline. (No mini trampoline? A soft gym mat or other squishy surface will also work.) Hold an exercise ball or a 5 or 10 pound weight in both hands, chest high. Twist at your trunk to face your right, return to center then twist to your left and back to center. Repeat 10 to 20 times.

Single-leg squat.
Stand on a sturdy 6- to 8-inch-high stool or step, with your right leg off the stool to the side. Bend your left leg as you do a squat until your right leg barely touches the ground. Do two sets of five to 10 reps on each leg.

March in the dark.
In a room with plenty of space and no obstacles that could bump knees or cause you to trip, march in place 60 to 100 steps with your eyes closed.