Why Static Balance Exercises Won’t Improve Walking in Parkinson’s (And What Will)

Balance impairment is one of the cardinal contributors to falls and reduced mobility in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, balance is not a simple concept. It comprises multiple components that rely on distinct neuromuscular control strategies. It’s essential that training and rehabilitation target the specific balance deficits affecting functional performance—the ability to perform daily tasks.

Static balance means staying steady on your feet while you’re standing still. You do this by keeping your center of gravity—the middle point of your body’s weight—inside your base of support, or the area under and between your feet. Examples include standing in place, standing on one leg, and maintaining fixed standing postures.

Dynamic balance, in contrast, is the capacity to maintain postural stability while the body is in motion. Functional activities such as walking, turning, maneuvering around obstacles, stair climbing, and transitional movements are examples of dynamic balance.

The mechanisms supporting dynamic balance are significantly compromised in Parkinson’s disease. Bradykinesia, rigidity, impaired weight transfer, shortened step length, decreased gait adaptability, and diminished ability to recover from balance disruption all make dynamic balance more challenging.

Watch this video to learn more about how you can improve your dynamic balance:

Static balance training alone won’t improve walking and functional performance. This is exactly why we train our fighters in a safe, progressive way to challenge both their static and dynamic balance. By working your brain and body, you can improve your ability to safely move around in space.

If you are concerned about your balance or want to prevent falling, check our five-week Balance Builders Academy™. It works by offering small challenges and daily practice that yield big results. Classes are held once a week, and you’ll also get recorded videos that you can do at home. For more information, email Kimberly.

Are you looking for Parkinson’s-specific exercises that will help you feel and move better? We offer a variety of specialty online courses to address your Parkinson’s symptoms:

• Rebel Fit Club Posture School
• “From Cramping Feet to Happy Feet!” Course
• PD Exercises to Improve Hand Dexterity & Mobility

💜 Coach Kimberly