Balance conditioning used to be considered exercise training for athletic activities. As we get older, balance and stability become important to prevent injuries from sports, recreational activities, weekend warriors and simply falling. This is why we incorporate balance and stability training in most workouts.

The benefits of standing on one leg, on a disk, wobble board or sitting on a ball makes a difference in the proprioceptors (stabilizers) of the muscles. The ankle, knee, hip, shoulder joints and core become stronger from stability training giving the body more overall balance and conditioning. Under stress, it trains the muscles, cartilage and ligaments which will make the joint stronger with proper muscle fiber recruitment.

Balance and stability is also used in many sports like skiing, snowboarding, rollerblading and activities of daily living.

Balance training can be done anywhere - standing on one foot, moving your arms, and for advanced balance training try closing your eyes. Incorporating balance in a general fitness workout is functional training and serves as a well-balanced program design.

For more information and tips on exercise, go to http://www.easyexercisetips.com