A yoga instructor says these five poses will improve your core control and balance

Balance training is important as it strengthens your core muscles and prevents injuries, especially in older age. It also enhances sports performance by giving you more control over your movements and posture.

In this short balance workout by yoga teacher and personal trainer Emily Mouu of Studio Yoga London, there are five equipment-free exercises suitable for both beginners and advanced practitioners. You can start with the beginner’s option and then gradually build up to the advanced variations.

In her post, Mouu explains that these exercises will engage and train your core muscles, which are responsible for stabilizing the spine and pelvis. These muscles also help to transfer power between your upper and lower body when you're doing dynamic movements like throwing a punch.

"A strong core will maintain good posture and overall body mechanics, improving respiratory function and endurance," Mouu writes. "Improper body mechanics are the most common cause of injury, which is why a strong and stable core is crucial for athletic performance."

How to do Emily Mouu's balance workout

The benefits of balance training

Balance simply refers to staying upright and stable, whether you are on the move or standing still. Maintaining good balance, as well as muscle and bone strength, is essential for daily activities like getting dressed, walking the dog or running for the bus.

Unfortunately, balance tends to decline with age and will deteriorate more quickly the less active you are. This decline can increase the risk of falls and other injuries. But you can try and combat this with balance-boosting routines.

When doing balance exercises, like the postures in Mouu’s video, it’s important to start slowly and use a chair or wall for support as needed. If you have limited mobility, you might prefer doing a routine like this chair yoga for seniors sequence instead.

If you have health problems or have previously had a fall, consult your doctor or physiotherapist before you begin.