Mastering the Art of Falling:

Safety and Confidence Training

Why It Matters

  • 1 in 4 adults aged 65+ falls each year in the U.S. (CDC)

  • Over 3 million older adults are treated in emergency departments annually for fall injuries. (CDC, 2024)

  • 800,000+ are hospitalized every year, often due to head injuries or hip fractures. (CDC)

  • The economic burden of falls in older adults is over $80 billion annually in the U.S. (NCOA, 2023)

  • Globally, the WHO estimates 37.3 million falls each year require medical attention. (WHO, 2021)

Program Overview

Ukemi—a martial arts practice of controlled falling—offers a practical, evidence-based intervention. Instead of only focusing on avoidance, it equips adults with body mechanics to minimize injury when falls occur.

Core Components:

  • Safe Falling Techniques (Ukemi): Rolls, breakfalls, and landings that protect head, hips, and wrists.

  • Strength & Balance Training: Evidence shows combined exercise programs reduce fall risk. (USPSTF, 2018)

  • Customized Sessions: Adjusted for age, mobility, and medical considerations.

  • Progressive Safety Protocol: Close monitoring, safe mats, and gradual skill progression.

Clinical Benefits

  • Reduced Risk of Severe Injury: Hip fractures, TBIs, and fractures are leading outcomes of falls—ukemi minimizes direct impact.

  • Improved Confidence & Mobility: Fear of falling itself increases fall risk. Training restores trust in movement. (CDC STEADI)

  • Supports Preventive Care Guidelines: Aligns with CDC and USPSTF recommendations on balance/strength exercise.