The end of winter and the beginning of spring is always marked by one thing: spring training. Spring sports—such as baseball—mark the change of seasons by getting their teams to training camps to begin preparing for the coming season. Whether you’re on a professional team, play in a rec league, or just enjoy some weekend pick-up games, getting back into the swing of things with spring training is the best way to prepare your body for your sport. Just don’t forget to prepare your feet for your spring training, too.
Sports can be pretty hard on the feet and ankles, which have to absorb hard impacts and handle a lot of pressure from running, sudden starts and stops, jumping, rapid direction changes, and more. Your lower limbs have to be conditioned to handle these stressors without getting injured. After a long winter, conditioning for spring training is even more important.
Here are a few ways you can condition and prepare your feet for spring training:
- Perform strengthening exercises – Basic exercises you can easily work into your daily routines, like heel raises, ankle circles, and more, can help strengthen your feet so they’re able to handle more stress.
- Stretch your feet daily – Feet can get tight and overworked, which can contribute to painful injuries. Stretch your feet every day to help reduce tension in your limbs and keep them flexible.
- Make sure your footwear is right – Your shoes play a huge role in athletics. Make sure your sports footwear is right for your activity and isn’t worn out at all.
- Take your time getting up to speed – Remember, too much too fast can cause injuries. Take your time conditioning and getting back up to “full power” for your sport.
The better you care for your feet before they deal with the pressure of your activities, the safer and healthier they will be in the long run. Don’t take your lower limbs for granted as you prepare for spring training and enjoy your favorite sports again. Our team with Mitchell Wachtel, DPM is here to help make sure your feet are at their best for your activities. Use our website or call (978) 794-8406 to reach our offices in North Andover, Lowell, and Haverhill, MA, for more information today.