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Balance exercises

Bicep curls for balance

Weights can make balance exercises more challenging and work the core muscles. Try biceps curls with a dumbbell:

  • Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Spread your weight equally over both legs. Hold the dumbbell in your left hand with your palm facing upward (A). Lift your right leg off the floor and bend it back at the knee (B).
  • Hold the position as long as you can keep good form while doing biceps curls, up to 30 seconds.
  • Return to the starting position and repeat on the other side. As your balance improves, increase the number of times you do the exercise or the weight you lift.
  • For added challenge, balance on the leg opposite the weight (C) or while standing on a pillow or other stable surface that isn't stable. (D).