One of the best things you can do for your health is to strengthen your core muscles.

These muscles go far beyond your abs — your core also includes your back, sides, pelvis, and butt. Working together, these muscles let you move freely and keep you steady on your feet.

Good balance is critical because it can help you keep your independence by preventing debilitating falls.

Take this 10-second balance test right now:

Stand comfortably near a wall with your arms in any position you choose. Lift one foot an inch or two off the floor so that you are balancing on the other foot. If you can’t hold this position for more than 10 seconds, you’re at risk for a fall. See page 15 of Gentle Core Exercises for ways to increase your core strength and improve your balance.

Gentle Core Exercises has everything you need to increase your core strength in just minutes a day:

•	38 exercises and stretches to help improve your strength and flexibility
•	More than 50 how-to photos
•	Over 100 tips and techniques to make sure you do each exercise correctly
•	11 moves you can do at work
•	Bonus balance exercise

PLUS, you get a special section with:

•	22 tricks for setting goals and staying motivated
•	A monthly activity calendar
•	A commitment statement you can personalize to help you stay on track