What is required for the human body to maintain balance?

Maintaining balance in the human body primarily hinges on the relationship between the center of mass and the base of support. The center of mass refers to the point where the body's mass is concentrated, while the base of support is the area beneath an object that includes all points of contact with the ground. To achieve balance, it is essential for the center of mass to remain within the limits of the base of support. This allows for effective weight distribution and stability.

When the center of mass shifts beyond the base of support, the likelihood of losing balance increases. For instance, if a person is standing on one leg, their center of mass must stay directly above that leg to maintain stability. This principle is fundamental in various activities, from everyday tasks to athletic performance, as it ensures proper alignment and minimizes the risk of falls or injuries.

While other factors like equal weight distribution, flexibility, and focus on distal movements can contribute to overall stability and functional movement, they are not as fundamentally critical to balance as the relationship between the center of mass and the base of support. Understanding this concept is vital for corrective exercise professionals, as they work to enhance clients' balance and prevent injuries.