The FallProof Balance and Mobility Program is a new exercise program designed to improve balance, strength, walking ability, and confidence.

Since the September 2010 startup, these classes have been filled to capacity. They are based on laboratory and field research from California State University, with proven benefits including lowered fall risk and improved quality of life.

The program runs every Tuesday and Thursday from 1 to 2 p.m. for six weeks, starting Jan. 18. Participants receive a report card that lists pre- and post-program scores on standardized balance and strength tests, allowing them to track their progress.

The testing also allows the instructor to match the exercises to each person鈥檚 needs, so full participation is assured.

Instructor and physiotherapist Dale Graham enthuses about the success of the local programs, 鈥淚t was very affirming to see the classes be filled to capacity from the very start.

鈥淚t was even more exciting to measure the changes in strength, balance, and confidence of the first participants. I鈥檓 so pleased to continue offering these classes through the Courtenay Recreation Centre.鈥�

The exercises progressively challenge and develop each of the balance mechanisms, and include multi-sensory training, postural strategies, centre of gravity control, gait pattern variation, strength and flexibility exercises. Exercises are done in standing, walking, and sitting on chairs, dyna-discs, or balls.

Any senior can benefit from balance training, but FallProof is particularly well-suited to those who are unsteady on their feet, have experienced a fall, or have a fear of falling. Participants should be able to stand independently for a minimum of two minutes, and walk with limited or no assistance. A doctor鈥檚 referral form is required.

FallProof instructor Graham is a physiotherapist with a special interest in research and treatment for fall prevention. She is certified as a balance and mobility specialist instructor with the Center for Successful Aging at California State University. She is an online instructor for the Canadian Fall Prevention Curriculum, and with the University of B.C.

For more information, or to pre-register for the classes, contact Courtenay Recreation at 250-338-1000 or 250-338-5371.

鈥� Courtenay

Recreation