After a recent conversation with one of my clients, I decided the benefits of stability training had to be the next topic for my blog. This particular client has worked with me for seven years, and she was telling me how beneficial it has been, especially highlighting her appreciation for the balance and stability work we do. Her kind words about my program not only moved me but also underscored that training your stability is a concept that truly needs to be widely known and shared!
Stability training is for everyone. Seriously, if you don’t use it, you lose it! Humans are becoming increasingly sedentary, and at younger ages. We spend much of our day sitting in cars and at our computers. If we aren’t mindful of working on and practicing stability, then this crucial ability will disappear. Just like muscle strength and other physical capabilities, stability must be consistently practiced. If you start sooner rather than later, you’ll find you’ll age more gracefully and safely. And if you’re a little older, don’t stress—it’s not too late! However, I do recommend starting today and progressing slowly.
Let’s dive into the benefits of stability training and some exercises you can do!
The Benefits of Stability Training:
- Core Strength: A strong core is foundational to stability.
- Coordination: Enhances the ability of different body parts to work together smoothly.
- Injury Prevention: Reduces the risk of falls and other injuries, especially as we age.
- Athletic Improvements: Boosts performance in sports and physical activities.
- Functional Strength: Improves everyday movements, making daily tasks easier and safer.
- Proprioception: Enhances your body’s awareness of its position and movement in space.
- Healthy Aging: Contributes to maintaining independence and quality of life.
- Enjoyment of Life: Having confidence in your stability allows you to take on more adventures like hiking, climbing, and playing without fear.
My Favorite Stability Exercises:
- Single-leg Balancing: Practice balancing on one leg while moving the non-working leg in various directions.
- Plank/Push-up Variations: From a push-up or plank position, remove one or two limbs from support to challenge core stability.
- Stability Ball Exercises: Incorporate exercises using a stability ball (e.g., ball planks, ball crunches).
- BOSU Ball Exercises: Utilize a BOSU ball for exercises that challenge balance and stability.
- Single-Leg Squats: A powerful exercise for building leg strength and balance.
- Single-Leg Deadlifts: Excellent for improving hamstring and glute strength, as well as balance.
For beginners: Simply practice shifting your weight and holding it, using a chair or wall for support if needed.
I’m sure you’ve heard how important stability is as you age. The question then might be, “When should I start practicing to improve my stability?” My answer: Start right now. To help you stay consistent write out your weekly plan with your focused exercises and try to stick with it to build the consistency.
You can probably tell by now how passionate I am about this being a part of your routine. No matter if my client is 25 or 65 stability training is a part of almost every workout we do together. It’s a part of every workout of my own and I love feeling the strength and power I get from these exercises. I can’t wait for you to do the same.
If you aren’t sure where to begin with your own stability training program, I would love to help out. You can schedule your free consultation today.
