Why Coordination Matters More Than We Think

When people talk about fitness, strength and cardiovascular endurance usually get most of the attention.

But there is another physical quality that deserves more recognition: coordination.

Coordination is your body's ability to organize different movements together. It helps you walk smoothly, climb stairs, carry something while moving, change direction, reach for something without losing your balance, and respond when the unexpected happens.

It is one of those abilities you may not think about until you notice that something feels less automatic than it used to.

Coordination also reminds us that exercise isn't only about making muscles stronger. Your brain and nervous system are constantly communicating with your muscles to help you move efficiently.

This is one reason activities that involve rhythm, balance, changing direction, or learning a new movement can be valuable. You are not simply working your muscles. You are asking your brain and body to communicate in a different way.

And you don't have to be athletic to benefit.

Trying a new activity, practicing balance, learning a simple dance, playing a recreational sport, or even changing the way you move during familiar activities can provide a different kind of challenge.

There is something refreshing about being a beginner.

We sometimes avoid activities where we aren't immediately good at something. But learning a new movement gives your brain an opportunity to practice paying attention, adjusting, and figuring things out.

That is fitness, too.

As you think about your movement routine, don't only ask whether you are getting stronger or improving your endurance. Consider whether you are giving yourself opportunities to move in different ways.

Your body was designed for more than one type of movement.

And sometimes learning something new can be just as valuable as doing something familiar a little harder.

Adam