Although it may be difficult to see how each balance principle fits into your daily life, almost all the activities you perform include some form of balance
Reducing your base of support:
- Throughout your daily activities you are constantly changing your base of support from a wide base (for example when making tea) to a narrow base (for example when walking between furniture) and a single leg (for example changing feet when walking)
- Performing these activities, just like the balance activities presented must be negotiated in a safe manner to prevent falls
Shifting weight
- When standing and moving about you are constantly shifting your weight. Being able to shift your weight without losing balance is a dynamic activity requiring constant adjustments and therefore important to maintain your stability. For example, when walking up/down hills you may shift your weight forwards/backwards, or when reaching to close the blinds or for something in the cupboard you will notice the weight in your feet shirt to one side or to your heels/toes
Stepping
- Being able to safely and confidently step over objects is important to be able to deal with obstacles like gutters and uneven surfaces. You need to be able to step forwards and backwards as well as side to side. These stepping actions also play an important role to stop or ‘catch’ yourself if you lose your balance
- When stepping it is also important to think about the trailing (back) foot. For example, you may be able to step over the gutter but your following foot may still catch on the gutter and present a fall risk. For this reason it is important to practice concentrating on the stepping performance of both the leading and following foot
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