Each Friday, we’ll have a new Workout of the Week (WOW) for you. We hope you’ll try it out over the weekend and then build it into your daily routine Monday through Friday of the coming week. These workout ideas will be simple, appropriate for people of various ages and abilities, and allow you to fit a little more physical activity into your week!
This week’s workout focuses on balance. Having good balance can prevent falls and injuries, especially as we age. According to the Mayo Clinic, any activity that keeps you on your feet and moving, such as walking, can help you maintain good balance. Working on your balance can be done anytime, anywhere–for example, standing on one foot while waiting in line at the grocery store.
Try this workout at home:
Walking heel-to-toe: Standing tall with your neck and back held straight, begin to walk slowly in a straight line, placing your back foot’s heel to the tip of your front foot’s toe. Try walking about 25-30 paces in one direction, then turn around and walk back. Try to keep your arms by your side to help isolate the leg and core muscles responsible for adjusting balance. If you are having difficulty keeping your balance, raise your arms out perpendicular to your sides (like an airplane) to assist you. Tip: try focusing your eyes on something that’s on a wall straight in front of you, such as a clock or framed picture. This can help you keep your balance.
Need assistance with this workout? Click here to check to watch a demonstrational video explaining how to correctly do this exercise.
Want more fitness ideas? If you’re a Health Advocate member with access to the Wellness Coaching program, reach out to your Wellness Coach for more healthy ideas to get—and stay—fit.
Remember, before beginning any new fitness regimen, talk to your doctor to make sure the workout is right for you.
