When most people think of personal training, they often think of strength training or cardio workouts. However, one area that is often overlooked is balance training. This type of training is important for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level, and should be a foundational component of any training program.

What is Balance Training?

Balance training involves exercises that strengthen the muscles used to maintain an upright position, including the legs and core. These exercises can improve stability and help prevent falls, making it an essential part of any training program.

Why is Balance Training Important?

As we age, our eyesight, hearing, strength and coordination start to decline. This can increase the risk of falls, especially in populations aged 75 and older. Balance training has been shown to reduce the risk of falling in this group (El-Khoury et al., 2015). However, balance training is not just for the elderly. Research has also shown that it can reduce the rate of ankle sprains and other lower extremity injuries in athletes (NASM, 2018).

Is Balance Training for Everyone?

Yes! Balance training is important for people of all ages and fitness levels. It improves health, balance and performance in everyone, from beginners to advanced athletes.

How Can You Test Your Balance?

One simple way to test your balance is to perform the stork test:

1. Remove your shoes
2. Stand with your hands on your hips
3. Place the sole of your non-standing foot against the inside knee of your other leg
4. Raise your heel from the floor so you are balancing on the ball of your foot
5. The assistant starts the stopwatch as soon as your heel is off the floor
6. If at any point your hands come off your hips, your foot begins to twist in any direction, or the non-supporting foot loses contact with the knee, the test is stopped.

Record your best time from three attempts and compare it to the chart below:

Poor Below Average Average Above Average Excellent Male 20 20-30 31-40 41-50 50+ Female 10 10-15 16-25 25-30 30+

If your results are lower than you’d like, seek out a personal trainer who can help you improve your balance and reduce your risk of injury.

Why Choose Challenge Life Personal Training?

At Challenge Life Personal Training in Letchworth, we believe that balance training should be an essential part of everyone’s program. Our experienced trainers can help you improve your balance and stability, reducing your risk of injury and improving your overall health and wellbeing.

We offer a range of services, including personal training and group personal training, to help you achieve your fitness goals. Our start-up packages and flexible training schedules make it easy to fit training into your busy life. So, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced athlete, young or not so young, we have a service to suit you.

Don’t let balance training be an afterthought in your program. Contact Challenge Life Personal Training in Letchworth today to learn how we can help you improve your balance and achieve your fitness goals.