Progressively challenging exercise program improves balance

Teaching community-based classes, I work with people of different fitness levels and physical abilities. These differences are especially evident with the older population since aging is a unique process for each of us and no two people are the same. What we are living with today is a combination of different genetics, daily choices and lifelong habits. Regardless of where you come from, I am here to help you reduce the risk of a fall now and in the future!

In spite of this individuality, I firmly believe that everyone can benefit from starting with the basics since proper movement starts with proper form. In actuality, most movement dysfunction and mobility limitation is the result of years of compensation. For example, an 82 year old person who twisted her ankle when she was 8 years old but didn't go to the doctor has been compensating for that lack of flexibility for 74 years! Now her knee and hip hurt and she is high fall risk.

The bad news is fitness and wellness were not popular in the good 'ol days. The good news is the prevention of disease and disability is finally gaining national recognition. Fitness and rehabilitation professions have progressed and there is so much knowledge about the human body that was unknown 10 years ago. It might be too late prevent a chronic disease but it is never too late to learn how to manage a condition and improve one's well being.

The FallProof™ balance and mobility training program starts with the basics and progressively challenges the systems involved in balance. For this reason, I close enrollment after the second class. I build upon training concepts so if a person misses forward step strategy, it is not safe to teach her/him the backward step strategy. If a person is not competent at the beginner level skills, then it is not safe for her/him to advance to the intermediate level of training.

The bottom line: Each of us has different physical abilities and challenges. It is important to respect these limitations and understand that not everyone will improve at the same rate. Whatever the circumstance, safety is always, always, always the primary concern. Be patient, be safe and progressively challenge balance skills at the rate that is appropriate for YOU. Start with a basic seated exercise routine, Take 5 to Exercise, and begin the best journey of your life!