Appears in642 Workouts*

Supported, Single-Leg, and Balance

Improve your stability! This single-leg balance exercise enhances core strength and coordination. Great for all fitness levels.

The Supported, Single-Leg, and Balance mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs) and quads, with help from the core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

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Supported, Single-Leg, and Balance Muscles Worked

Primary

Hip Abductor (gluteus medius); Quads (quadriceps femoris)

Secondary

Deep Core (transverse abdominis); Abdominals (rectus abdominis)

How to do the Supported, Single-Leg, and Balance

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand upright with your feet together and arms relaxed at your sides.

    • Engage your core to help with balance.

  2. Shift Your Weight:

    • Slowly shift your weight onto your right foot while lifting your left foot slightly off the ground.

    • Keep your left knee bent to help maintain balance.

  3. Finding Balance:

    • Extend your arms out to the sides parallel to the ground. This will help with stability.

    • Focus your gaze on a fixed point in front of you to help maintain balance.

  4. Hold the Position:

    • Aim to hold this position for 20-30 seconds. If you feel comfortable, try to hold it for longer.

    • Keep your body straight and avoid leaning to one side.

  5. Switch Sides:

    • After holding the position on your right foot, slowly lower your left foot back to the ground.

    • Repeat the exercise by shifting your weight to your left foot and lifting your right foot off the ground.

  6. Breathing:

    • Remember to breathe steadily throughout the exercise; do not hold your breath.

  7. Finishing:

    • Conclude the exercise after holding each side for a duration you feel comfortable with, generally between 20 seconds to 1 minute on each side.

Tips:

  • If you find it difficult to maintain balance, practice near a wall or use a chair for support.

  • Ensure that your posture is correct, with your shoulders back and down.

  • As you become more comfortable with the exercise, try to close your eyes for added challenge.

Supported, Single-Leg, and Balance FAQs

What muscles does the Supported, Single-Leg, and Balance work?

The Supported, Single-Leg, and Balance mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs) and quads, with help from the core. The main muscles are the gluteus medius and quadriceps femoris.

What equipment do you need for the Supported, Single-Leg, and Balance?

None. The Supported, Single-Leg, and Balance is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Supported, Single-Leg, and Balance variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Air-Pillow Counter-Balance Skater Squat, Balance-Board Standing Stretch, Balance-Board and Bodyweight Single-Leg Deadlift.

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