Studies show that any kind of exercise helps maintain and even improve balance. Specifically, exercise that moves you away from your center of balance is ideal. Many seniors have added programs such as yoga and tai chi to their regular exercise of walking, biking, golf, or swimming.

Activities that challenge your balance seem to have the greatest benefit. But even riding a stationary or recumbent bike has been shown to improve balance. Strength-training with weights or resistance of some type (e.g., elastic bands) keeps your muscles strong and toned, ready for any challenges to your center of balance.

But a program of exercise that isn't kept up may result in a loss of skills, strength, and balance. All older adults should maintain a daily program of some type of exercise and activity. If illness or injury causes a setback, then try to resume any kind of exercise and level of activity possible as quickly as you can.