Our Core Balance multimodal programme is well aligned with the UK Chief Medical Officers’ (CMOs) guidelines for promoting falls prevention among older adults who are already capable of participating in standard chair-based sessions. The CMOs recommend that older adults engage in muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week and incorporate exercises that improve balance and coordination. These activities should be progressive and reflect real-world challenges, with the aim of maintaining independence, reducing the risk of falls, and supporting overall physical and mental wellbeing.
Core Balance meets these recommendations by extending traditional chair-based exercise formats to include a broader range of movements and progressions. The programme incorporates seated core exercises to build trunk strength and stability, sit-to-stand variations (transitional exercises) to strengthen the lower limbs and mimic functional movements, and standing exercises using the backrest of the chair for support to safely challenge balance and coordination. Additionally, walking with varied gait patterns – again using the chair for support as needed – promotes dynamic balance and mobility.
The programme’s emphasis on progression is particularly important. For example, by varying the centre of gravity, base of support, introducing dual-tasking, and incorporating weight shifts and transfers, Core Balance ensures that exercises remain appropriately challenging and adaptable to individual capabilities. This approach supports the development of core strength, leg strength, coordination, static balance, and dynamic balance – all of which are key components in preventing falls.
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospital admissions among older adults in the UK, and poor balance and muscle weakness are among the most common preventable risk factors. Strengthening the core and lower limbs improves stability and reaction time, helping individuals recover from trips or slips before they result in serious injury. Moreover, higher levels of muscular strength are associated with lower risks of age-related diseases, including dementia, stroke, and heart failure.
Importantly, Core Balance is designed as a preventative programme rather than a rehabilitation intervention. It is intended for older adults who can already safely participate in chair-based exercise sessions, making it suitable for primary prevention. This distinction is consistent with CMO guidance, which encourages tailored programmes for active older adults to maintain independence and prevent physical decline, without introducing unnecessary complexity or risk.
In summary, Core Balance offers a safe, scalable, and evidence-informed approach to falls prevention. It supports the development of key physical attributes, reflects the principles of progressive training, and is well suited to community settings. By promoting confidence, mobility, and independence, it contributes meaningfully to healthy ageing and aligns closely with national public health recommendations.
