Stand straight to the side or behind a chair or table, holding on for balance.
Slowly bend one knee toward chest, without bending waist or hips.
Hold position for 1 second.
Slowly lower leg all the way down. Pause.
Repeat with other leg.
Alternate legs until you have done 8 to 15 repetitions with each leg.
Rest; then do another set of 8 to 15 alternating repetitions.
Shoulder Flexion
Strengthens shoulder muscles.
Sit in armless chair with your back supported by back of chair.
Keep feet flat on floor even with your shoulders.
Hold hand weights straight down at your sides, with palms facing inward.
Raise both arms in front of you (keep them straight and rotate so palms face upward) to shoulder height.
Hold position for 1 second.
Slowly lower arms to sides. Pause.
Repeat 8 to 15 times.
Rest; then do another set of 8 to 15 repetitions.
Knee Extension
Strengthens muscles in front of thigh and shin. Use ankle weights, if you are ready.
Sit in chair. Only the balls of your feet and your toes should rest on the floor. Put rolled towel under knees, if needed, to lift your feet. Rest your hands on your thighs or on the sides of the chair.
Slowly extend one leg in front of you as straight as possible.
Flex foot to point toes toward head.
Hold position for 1 to 2 seconds.
Slowly lower leg back down. Pause.
Repeat with other leg.
Alternate legs until you have done 8 to 15 repetitions with each leg.
Rest; then do another set of 8 to 15 alternating repetitions.
Hip Extension
Strengthens buttock and lower-back muscles. Use ankle weights, if you are ready.
Stand 12 to 18 inches from a table or chair, feet slightly apart.
Bend forward at hips at about 45-degree angle; hold onto a table or chair for balance.
Slowly lift one leg straight backwards without bending your knee, pointing your toes, or bending your upper body any farther forward.
Hold position for 1 second.
Slowly lower leg. Pause.
Repeat with other leg.
Alternate legs until you have done 8 to 15 repetitions with each leg.
Rest; then do another set of 8 to 15 alternating repetitions.
