Strengthening the side muscles of your hips and thighs is important for good balance.
- Stand straight, directly behind table or chair, feet slightly apart.
- Hold table or chair for balance.
- Slowly lift one leg to side, 6 to 12 inches out to the side.
- Keep your back and both legs straight.
- Don't point your toes downward; keep them facing forward during this exercise. Hold this position.
- Slowly lower leg. Repeat with other leg.
- Keep back and knees straight throughout exercise.
- Alternate legs until you repeat exercise 8 to 15 times with each leg.
- Rest. Do another set of 8 to 15 alternating repetitions.