Single-leg balance

Standing on one leg is another common balance exercise:

• Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Spread your weight equally over both legs. Put your hands on your hips. Lift your left leg off the floor and bend it back at the knee (A). If this is too hard at first, stand on one leg while you hold onto something for support. This can be a piece of heavy furniture such as a table or desk.
• Hold the position as long as you can keep good form, 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.
• To vary the exercise, reach out with your foot as far as you can without touching the floor (B).
• For added challenge, balance on one leg while standing on a pillow or other surface that isn't stable.