Fear of losing balance in wind can make an ordinary walk feel harder, but you can ease some of the pressure by changing when and where you walk. You do not have to go out in conditions that feel unsafe.

Check the forecast, choose a familiar route and take your time. If you already use a mobility aid that suits you, take it as advised; ask a health professional if you are unsure about its fit or use outdoors.

This can make everyday trips, such as walking to a shop or getting between places, feel easier to plan. One detail can be difficult to judge: what to do if a gust catches you while you are already out. Planning a safe place to pause can help you decide.

1. fear of losing balance in wind: Plan a steadier route

Check local forecasts and weather warnings before setting off. The Met Office advises staying indoors as much as possible during high winds, so consider delaying a non-essential trip when severe winds are expected. For current precautions, read the Met Office advice for staying safe in strong winds.

If you do go out, choose a familiar route with less exposed stretches where practical. Avoid walking or sheltering close to trees and buildings during high winds, as these can pose hazards. A less exposed route is a practical choice, not a guarantee that conditions will feel safe.

• Allow extra time so you do not feel hurried by other people or traffic.
• Think ahead about places where you can stop safely, away from traffic and overhead hazards.
• Choose quieter paths if crowds or busy crossings make it harder to focus on your steps.
• Carry a phone where you can reach it, and consider letting someone know your plans.

Wear well-fitting shoes that feel secure on your feet. When you meet uneven pavement, a kerb or a gust, slow down and look at the path ahead. If a gust makes you feel unsteady, pause somewhere safe and give yourself time to decide whether you can continue. If walking on feels unsafe, change your plan rather than pushing on.

There is no single wind-speed threshold in the available guidance that is safe for everyone. Use local warnings and how steady you feel to help decide whether to go out; a slower pace or a less exposed route cannot remove every risk.

2. fear of losing balance in wind: Use support that suits you

If you already use a mobility aid, use it as advised. Do not assume that borrowing a stick or buying a walker will give you the right support. If you are unsure whether your aid is the right height or suitable outdoors, ask a health professional. You can also read this guidance on choosing and checking mobility aids.

You may find it helpful to walk with someone on a route that feels difficult, or to start with a shorter, familiar trip. Choose an amount of walking that feels manageable rather than setting yourself a demanding distance. If you feel tired or less steady, stop somewhere safe and rest before deciding what to do next.

If you want to practise balance exercises, ask a health professional which movements are suitable for you and how to do them safely. Avoid using unsupported one-leg standing or heel-to-toe walking as a test of whether you can manage outdoors.

Speak to your GP if balance or mobility problems are new, getting worse, happening repeatedly or causing falls. Do not assume that wind explains an ongoing balance problem. The NHS advice about falls and balance concerns explains when to seek help; if you have fallen and may have a serious injury, or cannot get up, follow its urgent advice.

If balance also affects moving around at home, advice about stairs and transfers may help you plan those parts of your routine.

People Also Ask…

What should you do if a gust makes you feel unsteady?

Slow down or pause in a safe place away from traffic and overhead hazards. Take a moment to check how steady you feel before moving again. If continuing feels unsafe, change your plan rather than trying to push through.

How windy is too windy for you to walk?

There is no single wind speed that is safe for everyone. Check local warnings and consider postponing a non-essential trip during severe winds. Your route, how steady you feel and the conditions around you all matter.

Can you plan a route that feels easier in gusty weather?

You can choose a familiar route with less exposed stretches where practical. Avoid relying on trees or the sides of buildings as shelter during high winds. Think about safe places to pause before you leave.

Should you use a walking aid outdoors?

Use an aid that is already suitable for you, following the advice you have been given. If you are unsure about its fit or outdoor use, ask a health professional. Do not choose an aid solely because the weather is windy.

When should you speak to your GP about feeling unsteady?

Contact your GP if balance or mobility concerns are new, worsening or recurring, or if you have fallen. You can also ask for advice if the problem is changing how you get around. If you have fallen and may be seriously injured or cannot get up, follow urgent advice from the NHS falls page.

Is it useful to practise balance exercises on your own?

Ask a health professional which exercises are suitable for you and how to do them safely. Avoid unsupported exercises as a way to test your balance. You can discuss how any practice fits with your usual walking and mobility support.