Balance is an essential component of motor performance. Individuals with mental retardation demonstrate postural sway and overall coordination deficits which limit their ability to perform functional tasks. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of balance training on functional tasks in individuals with mental retardation. Ten high school students from a self contained Special Education classroom participated in a balance program 3 times weekly for 12 weeks. Each session lasted approximately 20-30 minutes and was held in the classroom under the direction of the Adapted Physical Education Specialist. Balance measures were collected prior to commencing the intervention and immediately following the training program using the NeuroCom Equitest, specifically, the Sensory Organization Test (SOT), weight bearing squat and step up and over. Data analysis indicated a significant difference in the SOT F (1,9) = 14.8, p < .01. This translated to a 25.8% increase from pre to post test. The weight bearing squat measured weight distribution at knee flexion 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90°. Pre test data indicated that participants were right side dominant 58.6% vs. 43.2% left side. Post test data indicated that weight distribution was more symmetrical after training as indicated by 51.9% right side and 48.1% left. Right side dominance was present on the pre test step up and over lift up index with 56.73% of weight distributed on the right and 40.73% on the left; impact index had similar results with 54.4% right side and 40.33% left side. Weight was more symmetrically distributed on the post test, lift up index 52.27% right and 47.33% left and impact index 50.4% right and 50.53% left. This study suggests that symmetrical weight distribution can be corrected with proper training thus resulting in more efficient movement patterns. The equalization of weight symmetry throughout each activity is particularly important to improve balance and reduce falls by avoiding the application of continuous force on one specific area of the body i.e., lower back or knees. In conclusion our results suggest that participation in a specific intervention training program can improve overall balance and weight symmetry in functional movement. It also supports the premise that individuals with mental retardation require intervention programs and should be encouraged to be active in school based settings to facilitate their overall development and transition to the community.