Balance Exercises for Patients With Cancer: How the Single-Leg Stand Builds Stability

Welcome back to our Balance Exercise Package for patients with cancer. In this second exercise, oncology physical therapist Dr. Leslie Waltke introduces the single-leg stand, a simple movement that helps improve balance, strengthen the muscles that support walking and reduce your risk of falls.

Why the Single-Leg Stand Matters

Standing on one leg is something we do every time we walk, but it can become more difficult during or after cancer treatment. This exercise helps train your body to safely support your weight on one leg while strengthening your feet, hips and core.

Dr. Waltke reminds us that wobbling is completely normal. In fact, it's part of how your body learns to improve balance.

How to Do the Single-Leg Stand

Have a sturdy chair, countertop or wall nearby in case you need extra support.

• Stand on one leg while keeping your eyes open.
• Lift your opposite foot off the floor and hold the position for 15 to 30 seconds.
• If you need to, lightly hold onto a stable surface or tap your foot down to regain your balance.
• Switch legs and repeat.

Even if you need both hands on a countertop and never let go, you're still strengthening your balance. The goal is simply to get comfortable supporting your body weight on one leg.

Ready for More of a Challenge?

Once you're comfortable balancing with your eyes open, try the next step.

Stand on one leg, get steady, and then gently close your eyes. Taking away your vision makes your brain rely on the rest of your body to stay balanced, so expect to wobble a little more. That's completely normal and means your body is learning.

Try holding the position for 30 to 60 seconds on each leg and repeat one or two times.

How Often Should You Practice?

If this exercise feels easy, practicing it once a week or a couple of times each month is enough to help maintain your balance. If it's more challenging, Dr. Waltke recommends practicing daily—one to two times a day, five to six days a week—until it becomes easier.

She also reminds patients that balance improves with practice. No matter where you're starting, consistent training can help make everyday activities like walking, getting out of bed, getting in and out of the car and stepping into the bathtub feel easier and more comfortable.

More Balance Exercises Are Coming Soon

This is the second video in our Balance Exercise Package for patients with cancer. Stay tuned for the next installment as Dr. Waltke continues sharing simple, practical exercises to help you improve your balance, build confidence and stay active throughout your cancer journey.

For more news on cancer updates, research and education, don’t forget to subscribe to CURE®’s newsletters here.