GET STRONGER… AND BALANCED!

Strength most of us understand. We need only lift a box, a child, a golf bag—or simply to try and maintain proper posture throughout the day —to be reminded of the strength of our muscles—or lack thereof. The Ranch’s approach to strengthening muscles through proper technique and exercise variety is second to none.

But in addition, nothing is more important than balance—it keeps us upright, helps us navigate curbs at home and trails in the wild, allows us to excel at sports and vigorous physical activity, and in our later years, it is essential to the prevention of fractures caused by falls. You’re never too young…or too advanced in years…to work on balance. Here’s how a trip to Rancho La Puerta benefits this essential body function:

Depending on someone’s ability, all hikes/walks at Rancho La Puerta are great for balance and coordination. Our walks cover varying terrain and require one to work on their balancing skills. Both our Quail and Woodlands hikes are well attended by our older and balance-challenged guests, while the young and super-fit tackle the mountain and all it has to offer. Our trails are well-maintained, but can be very challenging with plenty of ups and downs, and loose granitic sand and gravel.

Balance and coordination difficulties are often related to muscle tightness and imbalance. Our stretch classes are recommended, as well as yoga, postural therapy and foam roller.

The following classes are specifically designed to aid in balance: Balance and Coordination, Postural Therapy, Feldenkrais, Foam roller, Chi Kung, Tai Chi and Release and mobilize.

Both of our water classes are recommended for balance and joint issues. Some classes feature water therapy and a stretch modality class.

Balance and Coordination

Stimulate postural awareness and improve balance and coordination with integrated and challenging movements

L.A.B.

This class targets the abdominal, back and lower body muscles (legs and glutes) and is taught in a circuit format.

Body-Bar Workout

Use a weighted bar and your own body weight to add variety to full-body resistance workouts. (Level 1 & 2)

Core Workout for Men

Designed for the muscle imbalances of the male body. Improve core strength, balance, and total body function using foam roller, fitball and gravity-resisting exercises. (All levels)

Fitball

Improve core strength, balance, and stability through fun exercises on a large exercise ball. (Level 1 & 2)

Foam Roller

Improve balance, core muscles, stability, and total body function as you move and stabilize the roller in different planes. Release muscular tension through rolling massage to increase flexibility, relieve pain and improve posture. (Levels 1 & 2)

Legs & Glutes

Exercises specifically designed to strengthen hips, quads, hamstrings, gluteals and calves. (30 min.)

Open Weight Room

Work out on HOIST state-of-the-art fitness equipment plus treadmills, bikes, weights, ellipticals and more.

Sculpt & Strengthen

Increase strength, metabolism, and bone density while learning resistance exercises with tubing, Dyna-Bands, and dumbbells. (Level 1 & 2)

Strength Training Without Weights

Use your body’s resistance to strengthen, define, and challenge your muscles. Emphasis on upper body and abdominals.