One day, my colleague came to the office limping, with her ankle wrapped in bandages. She had sprained it while running. As we talked about how much she loved running, she shared her frustration with me about the prospect of having to rest because of the injury. I explained her that if she wanted to remain active and continue running, she needed to strengthen her ankles.
If you love running or have an active hobby like dancing, hiking, or kite surfing, you know how essential it is to stay on your feet. Our busy lifestyles often lead us to spend the week sitting in front of a computer, only to engage in intense physical activities in the afternoons or on the weekends. This kind of lifestyle requires us to be extra cautious. It’s easy to overlook the small yet vital joints like our ankles until they’re compromised. This is where preventative exercises come into play.
Why Ankle Strengthening is Important
The importance of having a resilient body cannot be overstated. Regular exercise isn’t just about feeling good; it actually helps our bones grow longer and stronger. Scientifically speaking, weight-bearing and resistance exercises stimulate bone formation, increasing bone density and reducing the risk of fractures. This is crucial for maintaining an active lifestyle, especially as we age. The mobility of our ankles can be taken for granted until it’s suddenly taken away. Ankle stretching and strengthening can go a long way in preventing accidents, maintaining proper walking mechanics, and preventing the weakening of knee and hip muscles.
Exercises for Better Balance and Ankle Strengthening
To help my colleague, I created a short guided ankle and foot workout that can be easily followed at home. These exercises are also especially great for those who rely heavily on their feet and ankles, like dancers and runners. You can access the video here – it is free of charge:
Incorporating These Exercises
Integrating ankle exercises into your daily routine is a smart move if you want to stay active and healthy. They help build stronger ankles and contribute to overall balance and stability, which are essential in preventing falls and other injuries. By making ankle exercises a regular part of your daily routine, you’re taking an important step toward enhancing your performance in any physical activity you love. Remember, taking care of your body today means you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite activities for years to come.
Prevention requires so little energy but can help save so much of your precious time and the lifestyle you love.
