One of the components of a healthy life is maintaining physical balance. Truth be told, balance training is even more important as you grow older. This is because your body undergoes many physical and health changes when you age. One prominent change is the weakening of various muscles and limbs. When this happens, you may find yourself getting into an accident more often than usual.
In addition,balance training and exercises have positive effects in your daily activities and routine and even your overall health. Based on research, fractures in the elderly may lead to death within a year after the accident. Also, secondary infections, which may be caused by these fractures, contribute to the mortality rate. Aside from these issues, there are even more reasons as to why physical balance training is important as you grow older.
Flexibility
When you are used to a non-mobile life or you find yourself working out less and less, your balance can be greatly affected. Your muscles weaken and your overall mobility is compromised. Your feet then become unstable, and your balance becomes unsteady. This may then lead to untoward accidents that may be life threatening. If you start doing regular exercises that improves balance, you will find your stance more stable and your weight evenly distributed. Because of this, you will find your body becoming more and more flexible.
Toned Muscles
As mentioned above, your muscle definition may change, especially if you don’t exercise as frequently. However, if you start doing balance-centered workouts, your muscle tone will improve. As a result, you would have better balance. In case of a fall, your muscle will serve as a cushion that will protect your bones from fracture.
Better Reflex
When you engage in physical balance training, you will also improve your reflex action. This is why if you find yourself in a situation where you’re about to fall, you may easily prevent this from happening.
Healthier Bones
Balance exercises, just like any other workout routine, helps build stronger bones. With healthier bones, you may be certain of fewer breaks in them, in case of a fall.
Sharper Mind
In relation to reflex, regular workouts make it possible to improve cognitive ability. This could mean that you can have a better grasp of your environment and when you do this, you could avoid dangerous circumstances. Lastly, the risk of experiencing memory loss is decreased.
Overall Health
Whether it’s physical balance training or any other exercise routine, you are guaranteed to improve your overall health when you engage in such activities. Aside from stronger bones and toned muscles, your cardiovascular system will also become healthier and your immune system better. Add to this, you may also find improvement in your mental and emotional health.
When you find it challenging to start a physical balance workout routine, you may start with a simple walk around your neighborhood every morning or afternoon. You may also engage in dancing or beginner yoga. The most important thing is you are willing to take the first step. So, take the first step now.
