Working as a Chartered Physiotherapist I’ve helped people improve their balance and stability through a variety of exercises and rehabilitation programs.
Our balance isn’t just something that happens around our feet and ankles. The balance system is much more complex and there are many senses that contribute to it. If you’ve ever stood on one leg and tried to close your eyes, you’ll know how important your vision is for your balance system!
If you are aware of any weakness in your balance, you should consider doing something about it now to prevent related problems in the future.
If you feel confident standing on one leg, then this short video will give you some Yoga challenges to work on to make the most of what you’ve already got. Find the right level of challenge for you. Be careful, if you’re unsteady make sure you do these exercises with a chair placed behind you and a wall or a kitchen counter by your side to hold.
In future, you can progress your balance challenges based on what you can control. Exercise progressions are based on what you can control. If you can stand on one leg but can’t control your hip position as I mention in the video you should work on hip strength and stability prior to taking on a more difficult balance challenge. Your Chartered Physiotherapist can help you with this.
The secret is to aim to integrate lasting change in your life. Carefully, integrate your balance exercises with daily tasks. How about standing on one leg every time you boil a kettle or text someone!? Have fun with it and make it your own.
Performance and sports related exercises should be tailored for your sport and prescribed by a Chartered Physiotherapist. As always, please discuss any concerns with your Chartered Physiotherapist or GP.
Orla Crosse is a Chartered Physiotherapist and Yoga Instructor at Performance Yoga. For more information about Orla and her Sports Performance Yoga classes and workshops see www.performanceyoga.ie.
