1. Home
  2. People & Relationships
  3. Senior Living

Lower Body Exercise for Seniors: Improve Strength and Balance

By Sharon O'Brien, About.com

3 of 7

Hip Flexion: strengthen thigh and hip muscles

Strengthening these muscles is important for good balance. Use ankle weights if you are ready.

  1. Stand straight; hold onto a table or chair for balance.
  2. Slowly bend one knee toward chest, without bending waist or hips.
  3. Hold position for 1 second.
  4. Slowly lower leg all the way down. Pause.
  5. Repeat with other leg.
  6. Alternate legs until you have done 8 to 15 repetitions with each leg.
  7. Rest; then do another set of 8 to 15 alternating repetitions. Add weights as you progress.
Explore Senior Living
About.com Special Features

Your last name may reveal a compelling story about your family history. More >

Is someone in your life passive aggressive? Find out why and how to handle it. More >

  1. Home
  2. People & Relationships
  3. Senior Living
  4. Exercise & Fitness
  5. Basic Exercise Series
  6. Hip Flexion: strengthen thigh and hip muscles

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.