Exercises for balance?

[shadon]

I've come to realize these last weeks, as I've riddin a bit, that my balance is not that great in my left leg. Can anyone sugest exercises to improve balance? This probably has to do with core strength.

[tatormc]

I use a workout program called Core Secrets (http://www.coresecrets.com) that uses a exercise ball. It's all about doing exercises on the ball and this requires balance. I find this to be a great workout and helps with balance.

[han-grrl]

A really good exercise to work core. try standing on one leg. a lot of people take that for granted.

[SadieKate]

Yoga - there are lots of postures involving one leg or side balances on one foot and one hand. The yoga not only improved my balance immensely but improved my breathing and my ability to focus (as in shut out the portion of my brain screaming "you can't do it!"). Highly recommend it. Rodney Yee has some terrific tapes/DVDs out that are only 20 min routines. Seach the forum. You'll find a ton of threads about yoga.

[drplasma64]

I bet tai chi would be good also

[CorsairMac]

simplest balance exercise ever:

stand on 1 leg but then Close your eyes. (this is best done in a door frame.)

[Sleek]

Try this circular balance board AKA a wobble board: http://www.fitter1.com/wobble-board-16.html

I've had two foot surgeries, and to regain mobility and balance this is amazing. There are two: 16" and 20". The 16" one is definitely tough to do! I use it A.M. and P.M. during the two minutes I brush my teeth, lol.

They come with a small hemisphere under the board, with the option of being fixed, or variable. If you make it higher of course, you get a more intense angle, so it's quite a bit harder.

I believe runners often use these single-footedly to build up their calf muscles.