One-Leg Balancing Exercises May Help Prevent Falls

Experts suggest this simple practice helps older adults maintain stability and improve their fall prevention strategies.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Weight Loss

Flat opaque gouache-painted illustration of a single wooden cylinder balanced on a circular plinth, evoking stability in an aging population. — Balancing on one leg, a simple exercise for older adults, can significantly improve proprioception and help prevent falls by strengthening core muscles. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe integrating small, daily physical exercises is effective for long-term health maintenance?

During the October 23 episode of the Today Show, host Craig Melvin highlighted co-host Al Roker's routine of balancing on one leg while filming in Studio 1A. This simple practice serves as a practical way to support balance and fall prevention for older adults.

Why it matters

Maintaining balance is critical for preventing falls, which represent a significant cause of mortality in aging populations. Incorporating stability exercises into daily routines is a common approach to supporting musculoskeletal health and long-term functional independence.

Health experts confirm that one-leg balancing exercises are effective for fall prevention in older individuals. The exact clinical impact of Al Roker's specific routine remains under investigation.

The players

Al Roker

A 72-year-old television personality and co-host who shares his personal health routines.

Craig Melvin

A television journalist and co-host of the Today Show.

The details

Balancing exercises engage the core and lower-extremity muscles, which are essential for maintaining stability and proper gait. By challenging the body's center of gravity, these movements help improve proprioception, or the body's ability to sense its position in space. This is a common strategy for individuals looking to preserve mobility as they age.

The Today Show began broadcasting in 1952.
Al Roker underwent gastric bypass surgery in 2002.
Craig Melvin discussed these exercise habits on-air on October 23, 2026.

Health Landscape

Fall prevention is a cornerstone of healthy aging, with experts increasingly emphasizing the integration of balance training into daily life. This trend follows the ongoing evolution of geriatric preventative care guidelines designed to reduce injury-related mortality.

Incorporating balancing exercises like one-leg stands can be a low-impact way to support your long-term stability and reduce your risk of falls. It is worth discussing with your physician or a physical therapist which specific balance movements are safe and appropriate for your current fitness level.

The takeaway

Maintaining balance through simple, daily movements is an evidence-backed strategy for aging in place safely. Focus on finding stable moments throughout your day to practice balancing, and consult your primary care doctor about a personalized plan for fall prevention.