The Curb Balance Run

The narrow concrete rim edging the flower bed looked exactly like a miniature balance beam, so I jumped right up to test my footing. Arms stretched out to each side, I trotted forward with quick, rhythmic steps, my sneakers gripping the rough, sandy surface of the curb. Halfway across, a wide expansion joint broke the line, dropping down into the dirt below. I didn't slow down—I leaned into my front foot, pushed off hard, and leapt clean across the six-inch gap, sticking the landing on the next slab with a solid thud. My balance was dead steady, not even a wobble!