30 Day Ayesha: Day 5

Today you'll focus on balance—you'll need your fit ball and tennis/peanut ball today. I've listed the tutorials before today's REPS in case you need to refresh your memory on the elbow stand, handstand, and butterfly invert. If you don't need this, skip to the REPS.

Pro tip: It's not uncommon for balance improvement to take more time to develop than increased flexibility, yet it's one of the best things you can do to improve your overall life! Balance training is important for injury prevention and those with EDS or hypermobility, because it improves neuromuscular control and proprioception (your awareness of where your body is positioned in space) which help you react to sudden movements and reduces the risk of falls. It also strengthens supporting muscles, improves coordination, and can prevent muscle imbalances that lead to injuries.

How balance training prevents injury:

• Improves neuromuscular control: Balance training strengthens the connection between your brain and muscles, allowing you to react more quickly and effectively to unexpected shifts in your body, according to Blue Sky Sports Physio.
• Enhances proprioception: By improving your body's sense of its position, balance training helps you make automatic adjustments, such as preventing a fall when you trip or stumble.
• Strengthens core and stabilizers: Proper balance requires a strong core and stabilizer muscles, which protect your spine and joints. Balance exercises target and build this essential support system.
• Increases overall stability and coordination: Improved balance leads to better coordination, which means smoother, more controlled movements and less risk of awkward or abrupt motions that can cause strains.
• Reduces fall risk: For people of all ages, particularly older adults, balance training is crucial for preventing falls, which are a leading cause of serious injury.
• Supports injury rehabilitation: Balance training is a key part of physical therapy to help people recover from injuries by restoring stability and confidence in their movements, preventing re-injury.