Tandem walking is an excellent dynamic balance exercise with multiple options for progressions. The heel-toe tap as shown below is an advancement that may be prescribed by your treating Physiotherapist. In the clinic we have used a line of tape however in the home you may use floorboards, a line in the carpet or a piece of string or tape measure.
Tandem walking
Instructions
- Position one foot on the line
- Slowly place the other foot directly in front of the toes of the starting foot
- The heel of the leading foot should be as close as able to the toes of the standing foot
- Continue along the line moving slowly
Heel-toe tap
Instructions
- The positioning is as above ‘tandem walking’
- Prior to placing the foot down, tap the heel in front of the toes and then tap the toes behind the heel of the standing leg
- Move the foot then in front of the standing leg and repeat on the opposing side
- Continue along the line moving slowly
Precautions
- Avoid scrunching through the toes
- Avoid using arms away from the body to steady yourself if able
- Complete in an open space