Many people are training with improper footwear that affects movement in the entire body. Lack of foot intrinsic (small muscles in the foot) strength can lead to inefficient movement patterns, placing excessive stress on the foot, ankle, knee, hip and low back. To check the status of your arch, see if the inside bones of your feet touch the ground. If so, you can benefit from simple exercises to support your arch. A common exercise used in rehab is to perform toe towel crunches.
Toe Towel Crunches
Directions: Sit in a chair with feet flat on the ground with toes pointing straight ahead. Then, place a towel under feet and curl toes trying to pull towel under foot while rolling feet out to lift arch up. Do for 1 minute reps for 3 sets. Improving the strength of your foot intrinsics will build a greater base to move from.
© Core Performance
Abbott Nutrition strongly recommends that you consult with your physician before beginning any exercise program and perform exercises under the supervision of a certified fitness trainer or conditioning coach. The effect of any specific exercise on a medical condition should be determined by your health care professional. The suggestions here are in no way intended to substitute for medical advice.
