Better Bones and Balance®

Better Bones and Balance® is a community-based fall and fracture risk-reduction exercise program. Developed at Oregon State University, the program incorporates lower body resistance training with weighted vests, impact, and balance exercises. Classes are delivered by community fitness instructors who were trained and certified through OSU Extension and local partners.

BBB classes are designed to gradually improve balance and strength to avoid falls and maintain independence. "Better bones are a bonus," says Professor Kathy Gunter, Ph.D, the director of the BBB program.

"Most fractures occur from a fall. If you avoid the fall, chances are you won’t experience a fracture. Because this program targets strength and balance, it has an immediate impact on reducing the risk for falls. The benefits to bone observed among long–term participants are icing on the cake."