Poor one-leg balance linked to dramatically higher mortality risk, study finds

In a longitudinal investigation published in 2025, over 1,700 men and women between 51 and 75 years old were assessed for their ability to stand on one leg for ten seconds. Over the subsequent seven-year period, 123 participants died from various causes. Statistical analysis that controlled for age, body mass, pre-existing illnesses and other variables revealed that failing the balance test corresponded to an 84% higher risk of death, nearly twice the risk of those who succeeded.

While the study is observational and cannot prove that poor balance directly causes earlier mortality, it reinforces a growing body of research connecting balance proficiency with better health outcomes. The article also highlights that balance can be enhanced through regular practice, citing the STAASH Balance Board Kit—a $130 product sold on Amazon that includes a board, training mat, roller and massage ball—as a popular, enjoyable training tool for core and stabilizer muscles.