DYNAMIC TRUNK BALANCE STEPS
Challenge trunk control and standing balance through controlled stepping and reaching tasks in water.
How to Perform
- Stand in waist-to-chest deep water with feet hip-width apart and arms slightly out to the sides for balance.
- Take a small step forward with one foot while reaching both hands in front of the body just below the water surface.
- Bring the back foot forward to return to the starting stance, then step backward with the same leg while gently reaching arms backward in the water.
- Repeat the forward and backward stepping pattern several times, then switch to the other leg as the lead leg.
- Optionally add side steps with reaching across the body to further challenge trunk control.
Key Execution Cues
Remember: Keep the trunk tall, land each step softly, and let the
arms help counterbalance the body during reaches.
Safety & Precautions
Important: Use caution in children with frequent falls or very
limited protective reactions; ensure close supervision and proximity to the wall.
Additional Safety Notes: Perform near the pool wall for quick support if needed, avoid large or fast steps until control is clear, and stop if the child appears unsteady.
Exercise Modifications
Make it Harder (Progressions)
Increase step length, add small direction changes, or perform with hands held slightly higher to increase trunk challenge.
Make it Easier (Regressions)
Reduce step size, keep arms closer to the body, or use one hand lightly on the wall for extra stability.