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The 45-Second Balance Test That Can Change Your Life
Do you want to be free of physical complications as you age?
Have you ever completed a single-leg balance test? It’s as straightforward as it sounds. Remove your socks and shoes, wrap your arms across the chest, and raise one leg two inches off the floor. Hold for as long as you can. Thrilling, I know.
Complete one rep on each foot with the eyes open, and again with the eyes closed. The test ends when you drop your hands, the elevated foot touches the floor, or the stabilizing leg shifts. This should be done with supervision if you have balance issues or other related conditions.
The maximum time is 45 seconds, but feel free to hold on as long as you can! The average for males under 50 is 42 seconds and 14.5 seconds for the eyes closed test. The average for females under 50 is 43 seconds and 13 seconds for the eyes closed test. Meanwhile, the averages for males over fifty are 37 and 7 seconds. For females over 50, the averages are 35 and 6 seconds. While I wouldn’t get overly concerned about these values, it can be valuable to have a general sense of where you currently stand.
If you have the time and space, I’d encourage you to try this test right now! If you’re on a high-speed train, maybe wait till you get home. I’ve heard that doesn’t…
