People are often surprised to learn that we’re not born with good balance, says physical therapist Molly Roffman. “We develop balance over time, first as an infant gaining head balance, sitting balance and finally standing and walking,” she says. “Physical play, like skipping and curb walking, is an innate way for toddlers and children to practice their balance skills. The clumsy gait of a toddler eventually becomes the efficient stride of a young adult.”

The problem comes when we grow up and stop “playing,” and our sense of balance declines, she says. “Professionals such as athletes and dancers continue to refine their balance skills, but for most of us, an efficient stride is good enough throughout middle age until we begin to notice subtle changes. In fact, we take balance for granted. Fortunately, we can improve our balance at any age. This is especially important for people over 50.”

As owner and director of StepWISEnow Studio, in Briarcliff Manor, Roffman helps people improve their balance with a progressive, challenging fitness program designed to engage and strengthen the brain and body simultaneously.

“Balance is a learned practice,” she says. “It requires true brain-body collaboration. One can’t practice balance without engaging the mind.”

StepWISEnow also offers classes in tai chi, A Matter of Balance, The Balance Workout, Core Connect, line dancing, Zumba Gold and more.

Location: StepWISEnow Studio, 325 South Highland Ave. (Rte 9), Ste. 109, Briarcliff Manor, NY. For more information, call 914.292.0602, email [email protected] or visit StepWISEnow.com.