Easy ways to improve your balance Image: Bigstock The body systems responsible for balance can be affected by gradual changes due to aging or side effects of medications. There are also a host of health problems that can lead to unsteadiness on your feet. But many stability problems caused by aging or conditions such as arthritis, stroke, Parkinson's disease, or multiple sclerosis respond well to exercises designed to improve balance. Get your copy of Better Balance Discover how you can prevent falls by improving your balance and mobility. Better Balance: Simple exercises to improve stability and prevent falls gives you step-by-step instructions for easy, effective workouts that will improve posture, increase muscle strength and speed, sharpen reflexes, expand flexibility, and firm your core. You'll also get tips for fall-proofing your home. Most likely, you already engage in some activities that help sharpen balance, especially if you're an active person. Other balance-strengthening activities are routinely taught in classes held at many YMCAs and senior centers. For example: Walking, biking, and climbing stairs strengthen muscles in your lower body. A recumbent bike or stair stepper is a safe way to start if your balance needs a lot of work. Stretching loosens tight muscles, which can affect posture and balance. Yoga strengthens and stretches tight muscles while challenging your static and dynamic balance skills. Tai chi moves, which involve gradual shifts of weight from one foot to another combined with rotating the trunk and extending the limbs, offer a series of challenges to improve your balance. What if you're not at all active? Research shows that the right exercises can help sedentary folks dramatically improve their strength and balance at any age or ability level. For workouts proven to help hone your balance, buy Better Balance, a Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School. Share this story:

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Better Balance Featured content: • How balance works • Balance problems • SPECIAL BONUS SECTION: Safety measures to prevent falls • Activities that enhance balance • Starting balance workouts safely •  ... and more! Click here to read more »