The Balance for Every Body routine emphasizes safety in several ways:

1. Start easy and progress slowly

• Focus on movement without pain or excessive exertion.
• Begin at 50-60% maximal effort (per American College of Sports Medicine and American Heart Association guidelines).
• Practice proper alignment and posture, then stepping, then movement from base of support.

2. Modifications are listed for every exercise

• See the example on the “Take a Closer Look” page.

3. Designed for seniors, with precautions for disabilities

• Precautions are provided for painful conditions of the knee, shoulder and back.
• All exercises follow posterior hip surgery precautions such as not rotating inward, not crossing the leg and not bending greater than 90°.
• All but two exercises include a neutral spine allowing people, after back surgery, to participate WHEN your physician or therapist say you are ready.

4. Details are provided for using support and practicing with caregiver, friend or partner