When Should You Start Working on Your Balance if You Have Parkinson’s?

It May Be Earlier Than You Think

If you’re waiting until your balance feels bad enough to work on it, you may be waiting too long.

A common mistake people make is waiting until balance problems become obvious—near-falls, grabbing onto furniture, feeling noticeably unsteady, or actually falling. But balance doesn’t have to be something you only address after it becomes a problem. It’s something you can work on proactively to help maintain your mobility, confidence, and independence.

Balance can gradually change over time, and the early signs aren’t always dramatic. You may simply notice that stairs require a little more attention, turning quickly doesn’t feel as comfortable, or walking on grass, gravel, or other uneven surfaces makes you more cautious. You might find yourself looking down at the ground more while walking, shuffling or scuffing your feet, or concentrating on movements that used to feel automatic.

These small changes are worth paying attention to. They don’t necessarily mean that a fall is around the corner, but they can be signs that your balance system could benefit from more challenges and practice. Addressing these changes early gives you an opportunity to build skills before fear or avoidance begins limiting what you do.

Balance is also much more than standing on one foot. Staying steady requires several systems in your body to work together, including your vision, inner ear, sensation, strength, coordination, and reaction time. That’s why “working on balance” can look different depending on the person.

Confidence is another important part of balance. When people begin to feel unsteady, they may naturally start avoiding certain activities. They might stop taking the stairs, walking on trails, moving quickly, or participating in activities they used to enjoy. While being cautious can sometimes be appropriate, avoiding movement altogether can reduce strength and confidence over time, potentially making balance even more challenging.

The goal of balance training isn’t simply to prevent falls. It’s to help you continue moving through your daily life with confidence, whether that means walking through a busy store, navigating a curb, playing with your grandchildren, gardening, hiking, traveling, or simply getting around your home comfortably.

You don’t have to wait until you’re falling to make balance a priority. Paying attention to the small changes and working on balance proactively can help you maintain the skills, strength, and confidence that keep you moving well.

If you’re concerned about your balance and want to prevent falls, watch the video above to learn how our five-week Balance Builders Academy can help. This course provides 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.

In addition to Balance Builders Academy, we offer a variety of online courses to address specific Parkinson’s symptoms. If you’re ready to level up your workouts, try one of our courses below:

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

💜 Coach Kimberly