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From Sharon O'Brien,
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Side Leg Raises: strengthen muscles at sides of hips and thighs

Strengthening the side muscles of your hips and thighs is important for good balance.

  1. Stand straight, directly behind table or chair, feet slightly apart.

  2. Hold table or chair for balance.

  3. Slowly lift one leg to side, 6 to 12 inches out to the side.

  4. Keep your back and both legs straight.

  5. Don't point your toes downward; keep them facing forward during this exercise. Hold this position.

  6. Slowly lower leg. Repeat with other leg.

  7. Keep back and knees straight throughout exercise.

  8. Alternate legs until you repeat exercise 8 to 15 times with each leg.

  9. Rest. Do another set of 8 to 15 alternating repetitions.

  1. Before You Start: Safety Tips for Balance Exercises
  2. Side Leg Raises: strengthen muscles at sides of hips and thighs
  3. Hip Flexion: strengthen thigh and hip muscles
  4. Hip Extension: strengthens buttock and lower-back muscles
  5. Balance Exercises You Can Do Anywhere, Anytime
  6. Balance Exercise: Checking Your Progress
  7. How much balance exercise do I need, and how often?

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