Exercise 26: 7 years - upwards: Foot-on-box

Foot-on-box

The exercise trains the hip flexor musculature by allowing the child to flex the hip in isolation and lift the foot to a certain height. The exercise is aimed at children from 7 years of age and upwards, but can also be used by younger individuals. For this exercise, a low platform is required such as a step, books or a box and a mirror.

Description

The child stands in front of the selected platform and lifts one leg at a time up onto the box and down again. The degree of difficulty can be changed by raising the level at which the leg should go up, and by using weight cuffs on the ankles. For example, a very easy level can be stepping onto a doorstep. Remember to let the child hold onto something firm to be able to focus on a correct movement. It is easy to want to compensate with other muscle groups. A mirror can also help the child to see herself/himself doing the exercise.