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question

What is balance training?

Tyler Wallace
Tyler Wallace on behalf of National Academy of Sports Medicine
Fitness
answer

Balance training has a tremendous benefit for people of all ages and abilities and can be easily incorporated into an exercise routine. From fall prevention in the elderly, to the increased ability to generate power in a vertical jump for an athlete, and to a method to increase the force or resistance placed upon the body to increase strength balance training has a variety of applications.

Balance training is the challenging the body to maintain proper postural control throughout a series of demands that can be placed upon it typically while standing still or through advanced transitional movements.

Balance exercises can vary complexity and the demand placed upon the body. The simplest of balance exercises focus on pure stabilization such as standing on one leg. The exercise can be made challenging by adding specific upper or lower body movement while balance on one leg unsupported or perhaps on an unstable surface. Finally, performing more dynamic movements such as steps, hops, and jumps that result in a balanced finish position are examples of the most difficult o exercises in a progression of balancing.

National Academy of Sports Medicine
National Academy of Sports Medicine
answer
Balance training refers to a type of training that focuses on the ability to maintain proper posture over the body's base of support.  Balance training has been shown to be beneficial for improving dynamic joint stabilization, which is the ability of the body to stabilize or keep the joints in proper alignment during movement.  Dynamic joint stabilization is critical to injury prevention and improved performance. Typically performed on a single-leg and/or on unstable surfaces, balance training can be a fun, challenging component to incorporate into an exercise program. 

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.