SINGLE-LEG TRUNK STABILITY
Develop advanced trunk and hip control in water using single-leg stance challenges for children and adolescents with good baseline balance.
How to Perform
- Stand in waist-to-chest deep water with feet hip-width apart and arms out to the sides just below the surface.
- Shift weight onto one leg and slowly lift the opposite foot a few centimeters off the pool floor while maintaining an upright trunk.
- Hold the single-leg position for several seconds, using small arm movements in the water to help balance.
- Lower the lifted foot back to the floor and repeat on the same leg for several repetitions before switching legs.
- Progress by adding gentle trunk leans or small arm reaches while maintaining the single-leg stance.
Key Execution Cues
Remember: Fix the eyes on a point ahead, engage the core as if
wearing a snug belt, and lift the foot only as high as balance allows.
Safety & Precautions
Important: Avoid prolonged single-leg stance in children with
painful joints or severe spasticity; adapt hold times.
Exercise Modifications
Make it Harder (Progressions)
Increase hold time, add slow controlled arm or trunk movements, or perform with slightly less water depth to reduce buoyancy support.
Make it Easier (Regressions)
Allow light fingertip support on the wall, reduce time spent on one leg, or keep the lifted foot just brushing the floor.