Every 11 seconds, someone ends up in the ER from a fall, and many of those are preventable. What if you could strengthen both your body and your brain at the same time, while reducing your risk of falling?

In today's episode, fellow physical therapist Dr. Mike Studer and I discuss the remarkable benefits of dual tasking, which combines physical movement with cognitive challenges to enhance balance, coordination, and bone health.

This simple yet powerful approach has been shown to reduce fall risk and boost brain function, especially as we age. I'll walk you through some easy exercises you can do at home, why they work, and how they can help you stay strong, steady, and sharp.

Whether you're recovering from a fall, supporting a loved one, or just want to feel more confident in your movement, dual tasking offers a fun and effective way forward. No special equipment needed—just your attention and a few minutes a day!

"When people become more confident in their divided attention, they also drop their fear. And while you're doing dual tasking, you can improve your strength." ~ Dr. Mike Studer

In this episode:

- [04:43] - What is dual tasking?

- [09:33] - Reintroducing play into your lifestyle

- [13:30] - What physical therapists say about dual tasking

- [16:21] - Four distractions that contribute to your risk of falling

- [21:13] - Simple dual tasking exercises you can try

- [26:44] - The link between dual tasking and cognitive function

- [29:08] - Why multitasking is not the same as dual tasking

- [32:25] - What is vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity?

- [34:50] - The power of extreme or novel experiences

- [46:01] - Integrating dual tasking exercises into your daily life

Resources mentioned

- Mike's website - http://www.mikestuder.com

- If you want a signed copy of Mike's book, send an email to [email protected], and include the address and who you would like Mike to make the book out to. The cost will be $10 plus shipping.

- Mike's Dual Tasking Activities mentioned in episode - https://drive.google.com/file/d/11BOJ3GVrCdV1wbG-Pm6eTXQtDXtRyxTF/view?usp=sharing

- Balance and Boost Exercise Classes (special discount - 2 classes for $22) - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/balance-and-brain-boost

- Discounted Supplements at Margie's Fullscript dispensary - https://tinyurl.com/supplementsforless

More about Margie

- Website - https://margiebissinger.com/

- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en

DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast.

*In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.