Balance is greatest when the body's center of mass is maintained over base of support. Which option correctly completes this statement?

Balance is greatest when the body's center of mass is maintained over base of support. Which option correctly completes this statement?

• A. Center of gravity
• B. Center of mass
• C. Base of support
• D. Dynamic equilibrium

Answer: (C)

Balance hinges on where the body's center of mass is in relation to the base of support. When the vertical line through the center of mass falls inside the base of support—the area bounded by the parts of the body in contact with the ground—the gravitational moment tends to keep you upright and small muscle adjustments can maintain stability. If that line shifts toward or beyond the edge, tipping occurs and you must react, often by shifting weight or taking a step. The base of support is simply the region on the ground covered by your contact points. So balance is greatest when the center of mass is over the base of support.

Balance hinges on where the body's center of mass is in relation to the base of support. When the vertical line through the center of mass falls inside the base of support—the area bounded by the parts of the body in contact with the ground—the gravitational moment tends to keep you upright and small muscle adjustments can maintain stability. If that line shifts toward or beyond the edge, tipping occurs and you must react, often by shifting weight or taking a step. The base of support is simply the region on the ground covered by your contact points. So balance is greatest when the center of mass is over the base of support.