Kent Probst, BS, MEd
Kent Probst is the owner of Long Healthy Life Blog
Why Yoga to Improve Balance?
As a consequence of aging, our balance tends to deteriorate. More specifically, this means loss of sensory ability and motor control, as well as a decline in musculoskeletal function from sarcopenia. This is why you may need yoga to improve balance.
The risks associated with poor balance include falling and fracturing a bone. Annually, about 300,000 Americans over age 65 fracture a hip and are hospitalized. 95% of hip fractures are the result of falls.
Reducing the risk of fractures is another reason you should be concerned about balance. People with good balance tend to see the following benefits:
- Improved posture
- Better athletic ability
- Less musculoskeletal pain
A systematic review of published studies found that yoga can improve balance in healthy populations.
Another benefit of yoga to improve balance is that it’s easily accessible. You don’t need any expensive equipment.
Yoga stretches and strengthens the muscles involved in maintaining static and dynamic balance.
People with poor balance and who are at risk for falling can have their balance assessed by a physical therapist, a physician, or a trained technician using the Berg Balance Test.
The yoga poses range from easy to difficult. Start with the easiest pose, and then progress to ones that are more difficult.
Yoga to Improve Balance: 8 Poses
1. Mountain Pose
2. Forward Fold
3. Chair Pose
4. Yogi Squat
5. Warrior 1
6. Peaceful Warrior
7. Triangle Pose
8. Tree Pose
Balance is increasingly being included in people’s fitness regimens, and for good reason. By regularly practicing yoga, you should see gradual improvements in your static and dynamic balance. Improving your balance means reducing your fall risk, increasing strength and range of motion, and combatting the effects of aging.
Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links, and I will earn a commission if you purchase through these links. Please note that I’ve linked to these products purely because I recommend them and they are from companies I trust. There is no additional cost to you.
