As we age, falls can become something more serious than they were during our Wonder Years. Experts say we can take tips from Hollywood’s stuntmen and women.
If you feel yourself falling (and I’m speaking as someone who has fallen off a ladder more than once), here’s some things you can do to minimize the damage.
If you’re falling backwards:
- Tuck your chin to your chest
- Bend your knees, if possible, & try to land on your butt
- Curve your back and try rolling onto your shoulder
- Keep your arms close by your sides
If you’re falling sideways:
- Bend your knees
- Tuck your chin
- Keep your head lifted
- Allow yourself to go limp
- If possible, roll onto your bottom thigh, then roll onto your upper back
- Try not to fall onto your hip
- Do not stick your arms out to brace your fall
If you’re falling forwards:
- Bend your knees
- Tuck your chin to your chest
- Keep your head tilted away from the ground
- Try and roll on the outside of your thigh
- Keep that momentum going as you roll to your side and then your back
- Do not stick your arms out to brace your fall
Overall, the number one rule is to relax your body as much as possible. Also, don’t try and pop right back up after a fall. We know your ego maybe bruised as well as your body, but the experts say to stay there on the ground and take a few minutes to assess whether you’re hurting any place before attempting to return to an upright position.
