The Role of Exercise for Balance & Falls Prevention

ByPreventative Healthcare Team

As we age, maintaining balance becomes increasingly crucial for overall well-being. The risk of falls and related injuries can be a significant concern, but incorporating regular exercise into your routine can be a game-changer. In this article, we delve into the importance of exercise for seniors in preventing falls and provide a guide to exercises that enhance balance.

The Importance of Exercise for Seniors:

  • Strengthens Muscles: Regular exercise, especially resistance training, helps build and maintain muscle mass. Strong muscles are essential for stability and support. This increased strength contributes to better balance, reducing the likelihood of falls.
  • Improves Flexibility and Range of Motion: Stretching exercises enhance flexibility and improve the range of motion in joints. This increased flexibility contributes to better balance and coordination.
  • Enhances Coordination: Exercise routines that focus on coordination, such as tai chi and yoga, help seniors develop better control over their movements. This, in turn, can significantly reduce the risk of loosing balance.
  • Boosts Bone Health: Weight-bearing exercises, including walking and strength training, contribute to better bone density. This is vital for preventing fractures in case of a fall.
  • Promotes Cardiovascular Health: Participating in aerobic exercises, like brisk walking or swimming, can improve muscular endurance of muscle, improving our balance. Aerobic exercise can also improve circulation and heart function, contributing to overall vitality and reduce the risk of dizziness or lightheadedness.

If you would like to join in exercise classes tailored to seniors and run by highly trained physiotherapists, we welcome you to come to Active Life Studio, on our campus in Potts Point. Book in for an Initial Assessment, where a physiotherapists will discuss your individual needs with you and then come along to one of our gym classes or hydrotherapy classes in our hydrotherapy pool. After class, why not head across our campus to the Nightingale Café for a coffee or bite to eat?