But while certain declines with age are unavoidable, physical therapists and fitness experts have repeatedly proved that much of the sense of balance can be preserved and even restored through exercises that require no special equipment or training. These exercises are as simple as standing on one foot while brushing your teeth or walking heel-to-toe with one foot directly in front of the other.

Testing for Equilibrium

Marilyn Moffat and Carole B Lewis, physical therapists in New York and Washington, agree that “balance is an area of fitness that is often overlooked,” but they seek to correct it in their recent book Age-Defying Fitness.

They define balance as “the ability of your body to maintain equilibrium when you stand, walk or perform any other daily activity” like putting on pants, walking on uneven ground or reaching for something on a shelf.

They suggest starting with a simple assessment of your current ability to maintain good balance. With a counter or sturdy furniture at hand, perform this test:

• Stand straight, wearing flat, closed shoes, with arms folded across chest. Raise one leg, bending the knee about 45 degrees, start a stopwatch and close your eyes.

• Remain on one leg, stopping the watch immediately if you uncross your arms, tilt sideways more than 45 degrees, move the leg you are standing on or touch the raised leg to the floor.

• Repeat this test with the other leg.

Now, compare your performance to the norms for various ages:

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