How long can you stand like a flamingo? The answer may reflect your age, new study says

Balancing on one leg, a behavior typically seen in flamingos, can serve as an effective health test. In older adults, the ability to maintain a one-legged stance diminishes significantly with age, more so than gait and muscle strength. This measure reflects the overall coordination of the body's systems. Good balance reduces the risk of falls and enhances the quality of life during aging.

A study with 40 healthy participants found the time one can balance on each leg decreases by approximately 1.7 to 2.2 seconds per decade. Standing on one leg for around 30 seconds is recommended for those aged 69 and younger, about 20 seconds for ages 70 to 79, and 10 seconds for those over 80. A short stance duration may indicate an underlying health condition or medication side effects, requiring medical consultation.

Maintaining balance and strength is crucial for healthy aging, and physical activity that encompasses multiple balance aspects is recommended. Practicing balance through everyday activities can help mitigate fall risks associated with aging.