Balance & coordination
Three Side Steps and Back
Face forward: one foot steps sideways and the other follows to make one step. Complete three steps, stand steadily and return along the same route without crossing your feet.
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Practice lateral travel, stopping, and reversal while keeping the feet from crossing.
How to do it
- Check that both sides have three small steps of clear, dry, nonslip floor without edges or obstacles.
- Face forward. Move one foot a comfortable short distance sideways, then bring the other foot toward it without crossing. This complete movement counts as one step.
- After three steps, regain a natural stance and become fully steady, then take the same three steps back along the route.
- Keep your chest roughly forward and toes at a comfortable angle as you go back and forth. Breathe naturally, exhaling slowly as you settle and change direction.
Make it easier
- Use only one or two steps each way; shorten each step; settle after every step or finish early.
Make it harder
- Optional: You may make the three steps more continuous while keeping your feet from crossing and your body from tipping sideways. Do not add speed or crossover steps.
Common mistakes
- Crossing the feet; dragging the trailing foot; leaning the body ahead of the feet; reversing before steady; gradually leaving the checked area.
When to stop or adjust
- Insufficient or newly obstructed lateral space; inability to avoid crossing the feet; repeated loss of balance; hip, knee, or ankle pain, or dizziness.