Add Some Balance

Balance is an essential feedforward and feedback mechanism that permits us to successfully execute our sports, let alone perform the majority of our daily activities. As we navigate our days, we are in the perpetual process of attempting to uphold our center of mass above our base of support. Additionally, both static and dynamic balance are associated with better athletic performance (Mononen et al., 2007; Behm et al., 2005) and a lower risk of injury (McGuine et al., 2000; Brachman et al., 2017).

If one wants to improve their balance, traditionally the thought is to do yoga and or perform exercises on a wobble board. However other types of exercise may also have transfer effects leading to balance gains. Plyometrics are a type of exercise that stimulate and really challenge the somatosensory system. A high degree of postural control is needed to successfully execute movements such as double and single leg jumps in all directions and jumping using different heights and on different surfaces.  Besides the strength and power increases from plyometric training, your balance also has the potential to progress. A recently published systematic review and meta-analysis of 42 studies provides solid evidence of plyometric training improving both static and dynamic balance irrespective of sex and age (Ramachandran et al., 2021). 

So, if you’re looking for a fun way to add balance in your life, you may literally be able to do this by jumping right into it!