Practice standing on one leg
A daily balance drill that trains your ankles, hips and reflexes.
- How often
- Daily
- Time
- 2 min
- Recommended for
- 13 factors
How to do it
- Stand next to a counter or sturdy chair you can grab if needed.
- Lift one foot off the floor and balance on the other. Keep a slight bend in the standing knee.
- Hold for up to 30 seconds, then switch.
- Repeat 3 times per leg.
- To make it harder, let go of the support, or try it while brushing your teeth. Only progress when you feel steady.
Why it helps
Balance depends on strength in your ankles and hips and on the feedback your body uses to sense its position. Practicing it helps keep those systems working, which may lower your risk of falls and ankle sprains.
Be careful
Always have something to hold within reach. If you often feel dizzy or unsteady, talk to a doctor before starting.
Recommended for
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Miles of uneven ground, steep descents and long days outdoors.
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Mopping, lifting and scrubbing, often on night shifts, with strong chemicals.
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Your own space and schedule, and nobody else around by default.
hobbyMartial arts
Strikes, throws, grappling and joint locks against a resisting partner.
hobbyPickleball
Quick lateral steps, sudden lunges and plenty of falls on hard courts.
hobbyRock climbing
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hobbySkateboarding
Hard concrete, high speed and a lot of falling while you learn.
hobbySkiing and snowboarding
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hobbySoccer
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hobbyTennis
Thousands of swings, serves and sprints, mostly on one side of the body.
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