2 min
Mobility and balance: moving freely for life
Five minutes a day of gentle mobility loosens stiff joints; one minute of balance work a day prevents falls. Both respond within weeks.
The full lesson
Stiffness in the morning is common and movement usually helps it. Ankle circles, seated marches, shoulder rolls, chin tucks and gentle stretches after warming up keep the ranges you use every day: tying shoes, looking over your shoulder, reaching a shelf.
Balance is trainable at any age. Stand at the counter with feet together, then one foot in front of the other, then one foot — holding on as much as you need, then a little less. Falls are the most common serious injury after 65, and balance work is the proven fix. Athletes need it too: single-leg work protects knees and ankles.
Remember
- Move gently, daily.
- One balance minute a day.
Try this: Do one minute at the counter today: feet together, then heel-to-toe.