Page 14-15 of manual
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, shift weight onto the right foot keeping the left foot on the ground, and lean as far as possible to the right; hold this position. Repeat the movement, moving to the opposite side. Make sure you do not bend at the waist, that is, keep your back in a straight line.
Balance Principle: Shifting weight, moving to the limits of stability
Activity: Leaning side to side
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Starting position:
Lean to the side as far as possible, spine straight, shifting weight to the other foot.
When you lean to one side (keeping your spine straight) you are shifting your body weight to just short of where you lose your balance and we call this moving to the limits of stability. If you can smoothly and safely shift your weight in either a sideways or forwards and backwards direction then you will be less likely to lose your balance.
Being able to shift your weight is important for walking and the ability to maintain postural control and return from the limit of stability. It is important for recovery from a balance shift.
Also important for maintain balance when you are reaching.
FUNCTION When you reach to get something that is just beyond your reach you shift your weight in one direction and move to the limits of stability. For example, you shift your weight backwards when you are washing your hair with both hands while standing, or when drawing the curtains. Walking up and down ramps requires you to shift your weight forwards going up and shift your weight back as you go down to maintain your balance.
More challenging if decrease base of support, Hold for longer at the ‘limit of stability) – where you wont topple but can feel you muscles working to hold you upright.