4 Exercises For Stronger Feet & Ankles

Put your best foot forward (literally).


RW Editors |

Do these simple moves frequently to ease post-run pain and avoid injury.

Seated Calf Stretch

fEET 1

WHY IT HELPS Increases flexibility in the arches; eases arch pain.

HOW TO DO IT Sit as shown. Grab your right toes and gently pull them back, stretching the plantar fascia. Hold for 10 counts. Repeat 10 times; switch feet. Do after running.

RELATED: 5 Post-Run Stretches You Can Do Standing Up

Calf Stretch

FEET 2
WHY IT HELPS
Relieves foot pain.

HOW TO DO IT Stand facing a wall. With your heels down, rotate the back knee from the 12 o’clock to one o’clock position; lean until you feel a stretch in your upper calf. Hold for 30 seconds; switch legs. To target your lower calf, bring your back foot in 15cm, bend your knees and repeat. Do after running.

RELATED: 4 Reasons You Feel Pain On The Top Of Your Foot

Toe Spread

FEET 3

WHY IT HELPS Improves balance and helps you roll your feet through their full range of motion.

HOW TO DO IT While seated, place a thick rubber band around your toes and spread them apart. Hold for five seconds. Repeat 10 times on each foot. Do three times a week.

Calf Drops

FEET 4
WHY IT HELPS
Strengthens the calf muscles and tendons near the heel.

HOW TO DO IT Stand on a step with your forefeet on the edge. Push up into a calf raise. Lift one leg and drop the heel of your other leg, taking up to 10 seconds to lower it. Return to the start; repeat 10 times on each foot. Do three times a week.

RELATED: How To Deal With Ankle Pain While Running

READ MORE ON: ankles foot injury-prevention sore feet

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