2 Posts are tagged with: feet_pain

Keep Your Feet Happy! They Have Feelings Too!

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Jun 9, 2008 by Sabah K.


If you've renewed your commitment to that New Year's Resolution to get fit and lose weight - one that demands a daily trip to the gym and squeezing in a workout at every possible opportunity - making sure your feet are in the best shape possible is a step in the right direction. Whether you're a treadmill enthusiast after work or addicted to spinning classes at sunrise, the extra pressure and stress will take a toll on your feet and legs.


To get through those challenging workouts ahead, you'll need a plan to support those feet, making sure they're great shape for your kickboxing routine, elliptical machine adventures, or just your daily jog. Here are some tips on keeping feet happy and in great health during and after a workout:


Wear the right socks!


Nothing is more uncomfortable than slipping around in your shoes during that step aerobics class; wear the right thickness of socks so you have plenty of cushioning and support during that challenging workout.


Look for flexible soles.


Take the time to find the ultimate fit for your workouts shoes so you're not causing extra damage to your feet. Shoes with a flexible sole and extra cushioning can provide support for high-impact activities such as contact sports and long distance running.


Make sure the shoe fits!


Wearing the wrong size of shoes can cause excess damage to knees, put more pressure on the calves, and may even lead to bad posture in the long-run. Since you need to have near-perfect form during any workout, a stable foundation for the soles is an absolute must; make sure your shoe provides the support you need to maintain balance and move around with ease.


Sprinkle Powder in Your Socks


This can help absorb excess sweat and keep you more comfortable throughout an intensive workout. This is also a good idea after your workout shower.


Head to the Spa for a Foot Massage


If you're a busy athlete, a foot and leg massage can help improve circulation and reduce stress and tension. Your feet are sure to thank you, especially if you're just starting a new training routine.


Keep Your Cool


A cold shower or foot soak can help boost circulation between workouts, and it's also a great way to treat your feet to a pick-me-up if your mood needs a boost. A hot foot soak is your best bet for relaxation, and adding a few essential oils or Epsom salts can give your feet an extra-relaxing treat.


Moisturize to the Max.


Applying a quality moisturizer to feet and ankles after a shower, or even before bed will keep your soles as healthy as possible. Try some self-massage or reflexology techniques to pamper those toes and keep feet flexible.


Maintain Good Form


Every type of exercise requires good form and posture, and you'll be preventing injury to your feet and legs as a result. Maintain good form by stretching and flexing properly so you can stay in great shape throughout your workout season ahead.


Keeping your feet happy for workout season means you can look forward to your fitness routine without stress, pain or health problems. Just keep these eight tips in mind as you set out on your fitness venture, and you'll be on the fast track to getting in shape!

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Keeping Your Feet Happy

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May 13, 2008 by Sabah K.

While most women will go to great lengths to support their high-heel wearing habit, few realize the unhealthy impact on their legs and pampered toes. Enjoy life in the high-heeled society with these six tips.

High heels may be a closet staple for many, but any health guru will tell you to steer clear of the stilettos and wedges to prevent damage to leg muscles, save your knees, and reduce the chance of blisters on the feet later in life. Is it really time to give up the 4" pencil-thin heels in favor of good health?

Most shoe addicts will beg to differ, but thankfully, there are ways to protect those legs and feet without compromising on style. Consider these tips and strategies to enjoy life in the high-heeled society, without falling into an unhealthy habit:

1. Change that strut- Walking 'normally' in high heels is an easy way to cause damage to the feet and lower legs. Your steps need to be much shorter than usual, so it's best to skip your model-like strides and stick with the reality runway; plan on taking slower, smaller steps and avoid shifting your weight during the walk. Good posture also helps; keep that spine in alignment to help you balance your weight with ease.


2. Massage away pain- A day in heels may be a day well-lived, but it's still going to take its toll on your ankles, calves and knees. Enjoy some well-deserved TLC with a quick foot soak, or invest in a foot massage treatment at the local spa to manage aches, pain, and inflammation of the joints with ease.


3. Wear the right size- Many women go by the mantra of 'the tighter, the better when it comes to heels and shoes, but this can cause dozens of foot problems - not to mention the outcropping of unsightly blisters. Make sure your feet are comfortably stationed inside the shoe when you walk and sit down, and buy a size larger than usual if you need to.


4. Look for an adjustable strap- Adjustable ankle straps can give you some extra support, and help you balance better in those too-tall heels. Adjust the buckle to fit snugly around your ankles so that your feet are planted firmly and securely in your shoes for maximum comfort.


5. Give those calves a workout- Building up muscles and strength in the calves and thighs can help you balance better on even the skinniest heels. Make sure to stretch and strengthen calves on a regular basis so you can keep up with the demands of your next pair of heels.


6. Don't be a heel digger!- Avoid balancing your weight entirely on the heel while standing, and shift your weight to the ball of your foot instead. Digging your heels may be a good assertiveness strategy, but will damage your shoes - and your ankles.


Walking tall is every woman's right, but knowing how to pull it off without damaging the legs and feet is a top priority! Exercise your right to wear those high heels with these six strategies, and you'll be able to step out in style, without the pain.


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