Falling Is Not an Option begins by exploring the nature of balance: its inherent beauty, its elusive source, its necessity, and its common loss late in life. The book discusses the physics and biomechanics of balance and details the importance of the postural muscles (those that involuntarily control balance and stability). It explains how athletes in sports such as surfing and skiing remain stable and upright, and the implications for balance exercises. The section that discusses what balance is not, is particularly noteworthy.
The second part of the book presents 15 weight-bearing postures and exercises, described in words, and illustrated with 122 sequential photos of the author demonstrating how to perform them. These exercises activate and strengthen the postural or balance muscles, and over time develop the ability to create downward force to increase stability and improve movement.
The 122 photos are best viewed in the 8 1/2"x 8 1/2" softcover or on an e-screen of similar size.
Postural Retraining™ is an incremental method that emphasizes simple positions, small movements, and increased duration. It does not have to be memorized, can be done at home or in groups, and requires no equipment.
The book concludes with a glossary of terms linked to the text.
Falling Is Not an Option is an original, provocative, and groundbreaking work of the widely misunderstood subject of human balance. The author, who has studied T'ai Chi as a martial art for 40 years, writes with authority and from experience. Because of its focus on developing and maintaining automatic balance skills, Falling Is Not an Option is a much-needed guide both for health professionals and their patients.