Blast From the past San Soo Journal Volume 3: Issue 3 Spring 1997 Simple Ways …

Blast From the past
San Soo Journal Volume 3: Issue 3 Spring 1997

Simple Ways To Improve Your Balance

By Master Bill Lasiter

The dictionary gives us the definition of balance as “A state of equilibrium or parity characterized by cancellation of all forces by equal opposing forces”, or “A state of bodily equilibrium”. What it really means to me is that at no time can I let my body be out of balance. It’s like watching two boxers box for a couple of rounds and they look so good, then all of a sudden, one gets hit or throws a punch and gets a little off balance, and the other fighter destroys him. So, don’t get hit or don’t throw a punch that will take you off balance. Easy to say, huh? Well, you have to look for the many ways to keep from getting hit. Learn to dodge, evade, block and keep in balance.

Here are some things that you might try to improve your balance:

1: Have someone push you from the side, front, or back and see how fast you can get back into balance. Did you have to take one step, two steps, or three steps before you feel that you’re ready to use yourself?

2: You might try a kick, then place the foot easily and gently on the floor. Did you have to step forward or backward after the kick? Step because you want to, not because you have to.

3: Do you lean too much when punching someone that’s on the floor? Try squatting to punch rather than leaning.

4: Practice the Eight Basic Foot Movements over and over.

5: Learn to shuffle and jump, always coming back into balance.

6: Stand on one leg and see how many kicks you can give without having to put your foot down.

7: Watch yourself on video tape.

8: Watch your posture.

9: When you do a movement, did you put your foot down properly to get ready for your next movement.

10: When you pivot, are you using the correct portion of your foot to pivot in the direction you need to go?

11: Slow down your technique so you can check your balance. Some people cover up being unbalanced by going fast.

12: One of the best ways that I know of to practice balance is by doing forms. You are moving from one balanced

There are many drills that you can do to make your balance better. You cannot afford to be off balance for even one second.

Practice your footwork and body posture.