Single Leg Forefoot Balance

We often take for granted our body’s ability to remain upright and balanced. In fact, achieving and maintaining equilibrium is a complicated beast. Balance is the ability to maintain the body’s center of mass over its base of support. Balance is achieved when sight, touch, motion and spacial orientation are synched. When it’s working properly we see clearly, orient to our surroundings, determine movement, make adjustments and maintain stability in varying conditions. When it’s not- we fall over. Practice balance with this simple exercise a little bit each day.

Instructions:

Hold the counter with one hand. To increase difficulty, just balance on one or two fingers, or go big, and use no hands at all. Place both feet flat on the floor and align your pelvis with your spine by standing tall. Choose one leg to lift and bend at a 90 degree angle and hold it in that position for up to one minute. If you’re curious about your ability to balance, remove your hand from the counter and test your balance. Lower the leg and repeat the exercise with the other leg. This is not a strength exercise, so you shouldn’t feel fatigue, pain or discomfort.