Foot Stuff!
Let’s talk about the importance of our feet! One of my New Year’s Resolutions was to incorporate more foot mobility and strength into my personal and teaching practice. Why? These bad boys carry us through life, often bound up in tight shoes, socks and the like, and we don’t think about them much until discomfort or injury sets in. I used to work my feet a lot more frequently in my performing days, but I’ve realized I need to be a little more intentional, and I’m bringing you with me on this journey!
Why Foot Strength and Mobility Matter
Your feet absorb impact, provide stability, and help maintain proper alignment throughout your body. When they lack strength or flexibility, it can lead to compensations that stress the knees, hips, and lower back. By incorporating some simple moves into your workout or daily routine, you can reduce the risk of unpleasant injuries like plantar fasciitis and shin splints.
How to Improve Foot Strength and Mobility
Toe Exercises: Try toe scrunches, spreading your toes wide, or picking up a towel or marbles with your toes. Hot tip: Try this while sitting at your desk working so you don’t even have to make extra time for it.
Ankle Mobility: You can do circles or draw the alphabet with your feet to work your ankles in multiple planes
Calf Stretches: Calf raises on stairs provides both calf strengthening and stretching
Barefoot Training: Walking barefoot at home strengthens intrinsic foot muscles and improves proprioception.
Rolling & Massage: Using a tennis or massage ball under your foot to release tension
We do a lot of foot mobility already in class but you’ll see even more in the coming weeks!
