Advertisement
Build strength to avoid injuries from trips, slips
More than 3 million older Americans land in the emergency room every year as a result of a fall, making it the leading cause of injury and injury death for adults age 65+.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Exercises that improve balance can help you reduce your chances of falling. A few minutes a day is all it takes to gain steadiness and move with more confidence, says exercise physiologist Christopher Travers, MS.
“As you age, you begin to lose muscle mass and strength, and your reaction time begins to slow as well,” explains Travers. “These are all things that affect your balance. As a result, you’re more susceptible to trips and falls.”
Doing daily exercises can help you improve your lower body strength and gain steadiness. Here are four balance exercises you can do anytime, anywhere, in about five minutes.
Advertisement
No matter how simple these exercises may seem, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise program. They may have other suggestions for ways you can improve your balance and stay active as you age.
Once you get the go-ahead, dedicate yourself to doing these exercises every day. They can help you stay on your feet for the long term.
Advertisement
Learn more about our editorial process.
Advertisement
Staying active can help increase strength and flexibility, help maintain balance and coordination, and improve overall heart health
Successful weight loss takes a long-term commitment to healthy living — create a healthy lifestyle you can keep up
While one focuses on stretching through movement, the other requires holding poses for 30 to 90 seconds — both can have a place in your fitness routine
With patience, planning and a little sweat, you can join the worldwide club of runners
Mold and bacteria in your reusable water bottle can cause health issues like infections, respiratory issues and allergic reactions
Sitting in the dry heat may help reduce stress, improve heart health and relieve pain
Primal movement exercises are based on moves our ancestors used in daily life, like lunging, twisting and bending
Factors like temperature, energy levels and sleep quality play a role in determining whether working out in the morning or evening is best for you
Focus on your body’s metabolic set point by eating healthy foods, making exercise a part of your routine and reducing stress
PFAS chemicals may make life easier — but they aren’t always so easy on the human body
While there’s little risk in trying this hair care treatment, there isn’t much science to back up the claims