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Staying steady on your feet becomes more important as you get older. This is where over 60 balance boards can help.
Over 60 balance boards are designed to improve your strength, stability, and overall fitness. The best thing is that they don’t require expensive equipment or a gym membership! They also offer a low barrier to entry, which means just about anybody can use them.
In this article, we’ll cover the top 5 over-60 balance boards, the benefits of using them, and how to pick the right one for your needs. We’ll also talk about how to test your stability before buying one and who should talk to a physical therapist before starting.
DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or physical therapist before beginning a new exercise program.
What are Over 60 Balance Boards?
Balance boards are flat platforms on which you stand, and they shift slightly beneath you.
That shifting motion engages your core muscles and forces your body to make tiny adjustments. Those small adjustments help to improve balance and coordination. For older adults, this kind of movement can be an effective tool for fall prevention, strength training, and better balance.
Could You Benefit from Over 60 Balance Boards?
As we age, balance starts to decline. It’s not just about staying upright, it’s about keeping your independence, avoiding injuries, and feeling confident in your movements. Over 60 balance boards offer a good way to support balance training in a safe and controlled way.
Improved Stability Using Over 60 Balance Boards
Balance exercises can strengthen deep core muscles.
Deep core muscles, like the transverse abdominis and multifidus, act as stabilizers for your spine and pelvis. They help keep your body steady during everyday activities like walking, standing, or reaching.
For older adults, keeping these muscles strong can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. Because these muscles lie beneath the surface, they’re activated during subtle movements, especially when standing on unstable surfaces like a balance board.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a strong core improves posture, stability, and overall mobility. These are key components of healthy aging.
Standing on an unstable surface activates small stabilizing muscles in your feet, ankles, and legs. It improves core strength, balance control, and posture.
Regular use can help prevent falls, which are one of the biggest risk factors for injury in older adults. This kind of training is a great stability exercise and works different muscles than your typical routines.
Functional Fitness From Over 60 Balance Boards
Better balance leads to better movement. Using a balance board can improve how you handle everyday activities like walking on uneven sidewalks, bending down to pick things up, or climbing stairs. A strong core can also help reduce lower back pain.
Promotes Positive Aging
Regular exercise routines are a good idea as we age.
Staying physically active improves your quality of life. It helps you keep doing the things you love, from gardening to walking the dog. Over 60 balance boards make that easier by strengthening your body and improving stability.
Cognitive Benefits From Over 60 Balance Boards
Balance training isn’t just physical. It requires focus, coordination, and quick mental adjustments. Studies suggest it can even support cognitive function in older adults. So while you’re working your legs, you’re giving your brain a workout too.
How to Choose the Best Over 60 Balance Boards For You
When shopping for an over 60 balance board, you want something that fits your space, fitness level, and goals. Keep it simple and safe. A few things to look for when shopping include the following:
Added Safety Features
Look for a non-slip surface. Some balance boards come with a stabilizer ring or anti-slip mat. These can reduce the level of instability and make the board easier to use at first. It’s okay to lightly touch the wall or back of a chair until you build confidence.
Look for Simple Design
If it doesn’t look like a balance board, skip it. You want something straightforward and easy to understand. Boards that offer adjustable difficulty levels are a good choice because they can grow with you.
Durability
Buying used is fine, especially if you’re testing it out. Just make sure the board is solid. A few scuffs are no big deal, but avoid anything with cracks or loose parts. Accessories like rocker-roller bases or stabilizers should be in good shape.
Price of Over 60 Balance Boards
If you’re on a budget, you can often find second-hand balance boards at:
- Local thrift stores
- Online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist
- Sporting goods resale shops like Play It Again Sports
- Community boards at gyms or senior centers
Test Your Strength and Stability BEFORE Buying Over 60 Balance Boards
Before jumping into balance training, try a few tests at home. These simple exercises can help you figure out if an over 60 balance board is right for you.
- Stand on one leg for up to 30 seconds. Try both legs.
- Try it with eyes closed to add challenge, but only if you’re near a wall or chair for support.
- Heel-to-toe walk in a straight line.
If you feel wobbly, dizzy, or experience pain, stop. Balance boards are not for everyone. Talk to a healthcare professional first.
Research the Right Fit
Make sure you choose a board that matches your needs. If you’re healing from a hip injury or dealing with a sprain or vertigo, a balance board may not be safe.
Here’s a helpful resource from the Mayo Clinic that explains when to avoid certain exercise equipment.
Maintaining Equilibrium – The Benefits of Balance Boards
Talk to a Local Trainer
Ask a fitness coach or trainer at your local gym or YMCA for advice.
A few smart questions to ask:
- What kind of balance boards do you recommend for beginners?
- What are some good stability exercises for older adults?
- Do you have any experience helping seniors use balance boards?
You’re not signing up for a personal trainer. You’re just getting advice. A good trainer will help without pressuring you.
Talk to a Physical Therapist About Over 60 Balance Boards
A physical therapist can evaluate your balance and give personalized advice. You might only need one session to get started.
Some health plans cover this, and you often don’t need a referral. The benefit? You might find simple exercises to improve balance without buying new equipment. It’s a great way to make sure you’re getting the best experiences safely.
Best Balance Boards for Seniors
These five boards were chosen for their simplicity, safety, strong reviews, and practicality for older adults. Each one can easily be stored when not in use and suits a range of fitness levels.
1. Whirly Board
Great for those with good balance who want a challenge.
Best For: Seniors with some balance experience.
Key Features:
- Unique circular motion engages more muscle groups
- Non-slip surface
- Compact and durable design
2. 60uP In-Home Balance Training System
Developed specifically for older adults. This is a great choice if you’re just starting or have concerns about stability.
Best For: Beginners and seniors in recovery.
Key Features:
- Includes resistance bands for upper body training
- Large base for safety
- Comes with instructional videos
- Designed by fall prevention expert Jeff Petersen
3. INFIDEX 360 Degree Rotation Anti-Slip Wooden Balance Board
Offers full rotation with a grippy surface. A solid piece of equipment with good reviews.
Best For: Intermediate users.
Key Features:
- Anti-slip surface
- Composite material base
- Supports multiple difficulty levels
4. Amazon Basics Wood Wobble Exercise Balance Board
Simple, affordable, and easy to use. A good balance board for beginners.
Best For: Budget-friendly beginners.
Key Features:
- Textured anti-slip surface
- Fixed point wobble design
- Lightweight and easy to store
Amazon Basics Balance Board
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5. StrongTek Professional Wooden Balance Board
High-quality and stable, good for those who want a long-term piece of exercise equipment.
Best For: Long-term daily use.
Key Features:
- Solid wooden construction
- Non-slip surface
- Supports a higher weight limit
- Great for standing desks and general balance training
STRONGTEK BALANCE BOARD
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Get More Tips on Over 60 Fitness!
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42 Life-Enriching Therapeutic Activities For The Elderly
7 Best Space-Saving Ellipticals For Over 60 Seniors
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Free Executive Function Planner for Adults
Best Exercise Equipment For Over 60 Home Fitness
Summary: Over 60 Balance Boards
Over 60 balance boards are a great tool to improve strength, core stability, and coordination.
Whether you’re looking to support better posture, reduce the risk of falls, or just feel stronger in your everyday movements, a balance board can be a good addition to your exercise program.
The key is to choose one that fits your ability and lifestyle. Start slow, talk to a physical therapist or fitness professional, and pick a board with the right safety features. You don’t need to be an elite athlete to use one. Just someone who wants to stay active, safe, and strong.
Anyone can buy a balance board, but please be careful if you have any dizziness, pain, or if you’re recovering from an injury. Please refer to the disclaimer above and seek the advice of a medical professional before using a balance board on your own.