Balance Exercises

Balance exercises improve coordination and decrease your risk for falls. As you do each exercise, use a chair for support until your balance improves. 

Do these exercises 3 times, 3 days a week. Hold each pose for 15 to 20 seconds.

Standing with feet together

1. Eyes open:  Find a stationary object to stare at as you hold each pose:  arms out to your sides, arms down at your sides and arms crossed on your chest.
2. Eyes closed:  Close your eyes. Picture yourself in an upright position as you hold each pose:  arms out to your sides, arms down at your sides and arms crossed on your chest.

Walking heel to toe

1. Find a stationary object to stare at as you do this exercise.
2. Using a hand on a wall for balance, walk heel to toe.
3. Then, turn and walk heel to toe in the opposite direction.

Standing with one foot in front of the other

1. Eyes open:  Find a stationary object to stare at as you hold each pose: arms out to your sides and arms crossed on your chest. Repeat each pose with your other foot in front.
2. Eyes closed:  Close your eyes. Picture yourself in an upright position as you hold each pose: arms out at your sides and arms crossed on your chest. Repeat each pose with your other foot in front.

Standing on one foot to balance

1. Eyes open:  Find a stationary object to stare at as you balance on one foot. Switch sides.
2. Eyes closed:  Close your eyes. Picture yourself in an upright position as you balance on one foot. Switch sides.

© 2006 - October 6, 2020, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

This handout is for informational purposes only. Talk with your doctor or healthcare team if you have any questions about your care. For more health information call the Library for Health Information at 614-293-3707 or email: health-info@osu.edu.