When learning and practicing martial arts, balance is an invaluable component. Maintaining proper stances provides a stable foundation for executing kicks and punches and preventing falls. How can you form impeccable balance needed to master your training, though?

One effective way to improve balance is strengthening your legs. Try hopping on one leg from one designated point to another. This simple technique builds strength and agility in the leg muscles, which provides a stronger center of balance. Give equal time to each leg.

There are a range of tools designed to master balancing. For instance, balance pads are made from foam and cause the feet to descend slightly on the platform. The sinking movement helps you get used to the feeling of instability so you can learn to adjust the body toward optimum balance. Other tools that work in similar ways are Bosu balls and wobble boards.

Being flexible allows you to maintain balance, and there are numerous stretching exercises to help. The stork stance is a common technique used by standing on one leg for an extended period. It stretches the body's core, which gives you a strong center of gravity needed to hold your balance. Knee hugs extend muscles in the lower back and hamstrings to provide you with a stronger base. Sitting on the floor, expanding your legs out horizontally, and reaching towards your toes also improves flexibility in the ankles and legs.