By Mara Kimowitz

The human foot is an intricate mechanism that cushions the body and adapts to uneven surfaces. It provides traction for movement, awareness of joint and body position for balance, and leverage for propulsion. Attaining proper flexibility of the foot muscles is imperative in walking and running biomechanics.

Use the following stretch sequence to improve foot and ankle flexibility:

Stretch 1 – Calf stretch

  1. Stand facing the wall with one foot in front of the other about 1 foot apart.
  2. Bent your frond knee to increase the stretch to the back achilles tendon.
  3. Hold the stretch for 25-30 seconds.
  4. Repeat on the other side.

Stretch 2 – Calf stretch with heel lift

  1. Stand facing the wall with one foot in front of the other about 1 foot apart.
  2. Bent your frond knee to increase the stretch to the back achilles tendon.
  3. Lift your back heel as your straighten your font leg.
  4. Hold the heel lift and toe stretch for 15-30 seconds
  5. Repeat on the other side.

Mara Kimowitz is the founder and CEO of StretchSource® and can be reached at www.stretchsource.com