Standing · Balance · one minute

Side steps

Also called side stepping, sideways walking or lateral steps.

How to do a side steps

1. Stand near a worktop or wall with your feet slightly apart.
2. Take one step to the side, then step back to where you started.
3. Now step to the other side and back again.
4. Keep your feet apart and never cross one over the other.
5. Rest a hand on the worktop whenever you want to.

In Vaskuna the voice says: “Step to the side and bring the other foot to meet it, then step back. Then the same the other way.”

Go gently

Keep one hand on the worktop throughout.

Make it easier

Face the worktop, rest both hands on it, and take small, slow steps.

Make it a little harder

Take two steps each way along the worktop before stepping back, keeping a hand within reach of it.

Have within reach

• A worktop or kitchen counter

In a session

In Vaskuna this usually lasts one minute. It is part of three routines: Steady feet, Standing steady, Wall strength.

Questions

Should my feet cross when side stepping?

No. Keep your feet apart throughout, so you never stand with one foot crossed over the other. Small, steady steps are enough.

Where is the best place to do side steps?

Beside a kitchen worktop or along a clear wall, so you have something to hold if you need it. Clear the floor of rugs and clutter first.

More balance movements

• Heel to toe stand
• Single leg stand
• Weight shifts
• Clock reach

Vaskuna is not a medical device. It does not diagnose, treat, monitor or prevent any condition, and nothing in it is medical advice. Talk to your doctor before starting new exercise, and stop and seek medical help if you notice chest pain or tightness, severe breathlessness, dizziness, or a racing heartbeat.