Balance Training Do s Don ts

Body Balance Training is all the rage. Good balance improves your posture, helps you recover from and avoid injuries, reduces back and joint pain, dramatically increases sports performance, improves confidence and makes you less likely to fall down, fall over or fall apart.

Here are some balance program do's and don'ts on your way to better balance.

Balance DO's

• Do start now. Good balance is important to your overall health no matter what your age.
• Do see your doctor if you have severe balance problems before starting any exercises.
• Do use proper technique. Consult a trained professional, a book or DVD. Check your local gym or rec center for classes.
• Do consider buying a balance training product specifically designed for balance work.
• Do cool down after your workout. Take a minute to get your heart rate back to normal.
• Do practice your balance exercises at least once a day.
• Do expect to be a little sore if you overwork your core. You might need to skip a day between workouts if you overdo it.
• Do alternate the surface of your workouts to get a different feel. Try it on grass, carpet, a mat...
• Do practice your balance exercises with a friend. It's a hoot.
• Do yoga, tai chi and Pilates. They automatically improve your balance, core stability and stress levels.

Balance DON'Ts

• Don't expect it to work overnight. Balance takes time.
• Don't continue using a FitBall or Seating Disc if it hurts your lower back.
• Don't worry about looking like a dork while you're practicing. Just laugh. It works out your heart and abs.
• Don't forget to breathe! Balance and core exercises make you want to hold your breath.
• Don't hurt yourself. Have something to hold onto or grab on to until you get the hang of it.
• Don't worry that you're not fit enough. You are. Tailor your exercises to your level.
• Don't jump right into the difficult exercises. Start simple and modify as your balance improves.
• Don't wear restrictive clothing. Be comfortable.
• Don't start your exercises without stretching first.
• Don't get discouraged. You may feel awkward at first but you'll be surprised at how fast you improve.

One "don't" that didn't make the list, but is still important, is from our product manager and company clown Daver Williams. He suggests you don't do your balance exercises while holding knives. Thanks, Daver.

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