← Back to Exercise Catalog

LUNGE WITH ARM LIFTS - LEFT FORWARD

Develop balance and lower body strength through static lunge position with alternating arm lifts, featuring lowest abdominal activity.

Focus Lower Body
Environment Hydrotherapy pool
Pool Depth Fully Anchored
Supervision Not required
Equipment None

How to Perform

  1. Stand in chest-deep water in lunge position with left leg forward, knee slightly bent and positioned above toes.
  2. Extend arms out to sides with palms down, just under water surface.
  3. Lift left arm so elbow just clears water surface and hold for 5 seconds.
  4. Lower left arm and lift right arm, holding for 5 seconds.
  5. Complete 5 repetitions on each arm, then switch to right leg forward lunge and repeat.

Key Execution Cues

Remember: Maintain lunge position throughout. Keep front knee over toes. Hold each arm lift steady for full 5 seconds. Lowest abdominal activity among exercises.

Safety & Precautions

Important: Avoid if acute knee injury or severe balance impairment. Use caution with shoulder pathology limiting overhead movement.

Additional Safety Notes: Ensure stable footing before beginning. Stop if knee pain develops. Use wall nearby for balance if needed.

Exercise Modifications

Make it Harder (Progressions)

Increase hold time to 7-10 seconds. Deepen lunge position. Add hand buoys for resistance. Increase to 8-10 reps per arm.

Make it Easier (Regressions)

Reduce lunge depth. Shorten hold time to 3 seconds. Use pool wall for light support. Reduce to 3 reps per arm.

Attribution

Source TypePDF
Original AuthorPsycharakis SG, et al.
ContributorAI Extraction Agent
PublicationPhysiotherapy 116 (2022) 108-118 - The WATER Study
LicenseAll Rights Reserved
Credit RequiredYes
Date Created2026-01-18
Last Modified2026-01-18

External Source

TypePDF
Additional InfoCross-sectional study with 20 CLBP participants, water temp 28°C, depth 1.25m. Lowest abdominal activation.