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Alternate arm and leg (bird dog) balance

Alternate arm and leg (bird dog) balance

Do this exercise slowly. Try to keep your body straight at all times.

How to do bird dog exercise
  1. Start on the floor, on your hands and knees.
  2. Tighten your belly muscles by pulling your belly button in toward your spine. Be sure you continue to breathe normally and do not hold your breath.
  3. Raise one arm off the floor, and hold it straight out in front of you. Be careful not to let your shoulder drop down, because that will twist your trunk.
  4. Hold for about 6 seconds, then lower your arm and switch to your other arm.
  5. Repeat 8 to 12 times with each arm.
  6. When you can do this exercise with ease and no pain, try it with one leg raised off the floor. Hold your leg straight out behind you. Be careful not to let your hip drop down, because that will twist your trunk.
  7. When holding your leg straight out becomes easier, try raising your opposite arm at the same time. Repeat steps 1 through 5.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. WebMD Ignite, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.