Related Terms

• Content available for subscribers only.

Background

• Overview: Balance training uses controlled instability to help individuals discover the limits of stability, or the point at which they begin to lose control, and expand that limit. Balance training emphasizes functional movement patterns in a multisensory environment.
• Some use the term instability training instead of balance training because balance training involves putting one's body in situations where balance is threatened, therefore exercising the muscles and sensory systems as the body works to reach and maintain balance.
• The National Academy of Sports Medicine defines balance as the ability to maintain the body's center of gravity within its base of support. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, balance is a component of physical fitness related to the maintenance of equilibrium.
• Sensorimotor control: Balance is maintained through a complex interaction between the body's central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, and muscular system. The interactions between the three systems, which are continuous, are called sensorimotor control.
• Further content available for subscribers only.

Technique

• Content available for subscribers only.

Theory/Evidence

• Content available for subscribers only.

Safety

• Content available for subscribers only.

Author Information

• Content available for subscribers only.

References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

• Content available for subscribers only.