Many of our New Year’s resolutions focus on health and fitness—don’t forget that this should include our feet! Strong, flexible feet can enhance balance, improve posture, and reduce the risk of injuries. Below, Clark Podiatry Center has outlined five effective foot exercises to incorporate into your routine this year.

1. Toe Raises

How to Do It: Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Slowly rise onto your toes, lifting your heels off the ground. Hold for a few seconds, then lower back down.

Benefits: This exercise strengthens the calf muscles and improves balance. Aim for 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions.

2. Heel Raises

How to Do It: Stand on your toes with your heels off the ground. Slowly lower your heels to the floor.

Benefits: Heel raises work the muscles in the front of your feet and promote ankle stability. Try to perform 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions.

3. Foot Roll

How to Do It: Sit in a chair and place a small ball (like a tennis ball) under your foot. Roll the ball back and forth, applying gentle pressure.

Benefits: This exercise massages the plantar fascia, helping relieve foot tension. Spend 2-3 minutes on each foot.

4. Towel Scrunches

How to Do It: Sit on a chair with a towel laid flat on the floor in front of you. Use your toes to scrunch the towel towards you.

Benefits: Towel scrunches enhance toe strength and improve dexterity. Repeat for 2-3 minutes per foot.

5. Ankle Circles

How to Do It: Sit or stand, lifting one foot off the ground. Rotate your ankle in a circular motion, making 10 circles in each direction.

Benefits: Ankle circles increase flexibility and strength in the ankle joint. Perform this exercise with both feet for optimal results.

Incorporating these foot exercises into your routine can lead to stronger, healthier feet and overall improved well-being. For more foot-related advice and guidance, consult with a podiatrist! At Clark Podiatry Center, Dr. Brandon A. Macy, a board-certified podiatrist, treats various conditions such as heel pain, diabetic wounds, bunions, nerve pain, and more. The New Jersey Children’s Foot Health Institute is also part of Clark Podiatry Center. We provide exceptional service for patients in Union County. Contact our office at (732) 382-3470 or schedule an appointment online. Our office is at 1114 Raritan Road, Clark, NJ 07066.