Balancing on One Leg Predicts Longer, Healthier Life

As of 2025-11-14T12:39:04+00:00, experts emphasize the importance of balancing on one leg for overall health and longevity. According to Dr. Gillian Wooldridge, a sports medicine physician at Houston Methodist Hospital, the ability to balance on one leg is essential for everyday activities like walking and using stairs.

Maintaining good balance can significantly reduce the risk of falls, which can be particularly devastating for older adults. Amanda Beaty, a physical therapist at Duke Health, explains that falls can lead to a loss of independence and increased anxiety in day-to-day tasks. Interestingly, balance also serves as an indicator of broader health conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.

Experts recommend that adults under 30 should be able to balance on one leg for 40-45 seconds, while those between 30 and 50 should aim for 30 seconds. If someone struggles to balance for even 10-15 seconds, they may be at an increased risk of falls and mortality in the next decade. To improve balance, Beaty suggests using household surfaces for support and gradually reducing the need for assistance. Additionally, regular exercise, strength training, and activities like tai chi can all help enhance balance and prevent falls.

By prioritizing balance, individuals can maintain their independence, stay active, and enjoy a longer, healthier life. As Wooldridge notes, "a small investment in time can really have a pretty significant downstream effect when it comes to quality of life."