"Balance Test" - for a better life - try it yourself

A good test to see how fit you are:

Stand tall, head up, straight back, with your feet hip-distance apart. Slowly lift up one leg and time how long you can keep that foot from touching the floor whilst staying in that position without swaying.

Good Balance -           more than 40 seconds

Average -                     25 to 40 seconds

Needs Improvement - 25 seconds or under

What does this prove?

This simple test can help predict your risk of stroke, and is an indicator of cognitive brain function.

The American Heart Association found those people who wobbled inside of twenty seconds often had small blood vessel damage, which in turn can indicate a risk of brain disease or the decline of mental functions.

How can I improve?

Practice standing on one leg in front of the television, or try walking heel-to-toe to build up strength in your leg muscles.

If you want to truly excel at this test, try doing it with your eyes closed. This is much harder. It is reported that concentrating on something that you can see that is still can help you balance for longer.

The UK's Medical Research Council, following a study, found those in their 50s who could stand on one leg for ten seconds with their eyes closed were most likely to be fitter in 13 years' time.

HMHB uses stretching and balancing as part of their awareness around exercise and fitness.