How to do it
You need: 3 to 5 low, soft objects such as rolled towels or foam pool noodles, A worktop or wall alongside for support.
Lay a few low, soft objects - rolled towels work well - in a line on the floor, about one step apart, beside a worktop or wall you can steady yourself on. Start standing tall at one end of the line.
- Walk forwards towards the first object at a normal, comfortable pace.
- Lift your leading foot up and over the object, placing it down well clear on the far side.
- Bring your trailing foot up and over to join it.
- Walk on to the next object and repeat along the line.
Form cues
- You lift your whole foot clear of the object rather than skimming over it.
- Your eyes look ahead to the next object, glancing down only briefly.
- You keep moving through in a smooth rhythm rather than stopping dead at each one.
Common mistakes
- Using hard or heavy objects that will not shift if you clip them with a foot.
- Shuffling your feet along the floor between the objects.
- Staring down at your feet the whole way along.
Safety: Stop and message your physio if you have a fall, a near-fall, or new dizziness or leg weakness.