Alternate legs until you have done 8 to 15 repetitions with each leg.
Rest; then do another set of 8 to 15 alternating repetitions.
Add modifications as you progress.
Side Leg Raise
Do leg raise as part of your regularly scheduled strength exercises, and add these modifications as you progress: Hold table with one hand, then one fingertip, then no hands; then do exercise with eyes closed, if steady.
Stand straight, directly behind table or chair, feet slightly apart.
Hold onto table or chair for balance.
Slowly lift one leg to side 6-12 inches out to side. Keep your back and both legs straight. Don't point your toes outward; keep them facing forward.
Hold position for 1 second.
Slowly lower leg all the way down. Pause.
Repeat with other leg.
Alternate legs unti you have done 8 to 15 repetitions with each leg.
Rest; then do another set of 8 to 15 alternating repetitions.
Add modifications as you progress.
Anytime/Anywhere
These types of exercises also improve your balance. You can do them almost anytime, anywhere, and as often as you like, as long as you have something sturdy nearby to hold onto if you become unsteady.
Examples:
Walk heel-to-toe. Position your heel just in front of the toes of the opposite foot each time you take a step. Your heel and toes should touch or almost touch. (See Illustration.)
Stand on one foot (for example, while waiting in line at the grocery store or at the bus stop). Alternate feet.
Stand up and sit down without using your hands.
