If you're just starting running, it's worth spending some time strengthening your feet and ankles. When you're out on trails, every step is different. You're landing on uphill and downhill slants. You're climbing, descending and jumping over rocks and roots. You need to make sure that you have a strong foundation. You'll likely turn an ankle on the trails, but if you spend time strengthening them, your risk of getting injured decreases.
This routine is very simple and is from The Cool Impossible by Eric Orton. Eric's website has a link to the company Freo, where you can get a slant board. If you'd rather build your own, there are plenty of tutorials on YouTube. For this exercise, you'll also need a set of hiking or ski poles. Generally, you want to do the exercises on a firm carpeted surface or on a yoga mat. Hard wood floors and tile are a little too slippery. You'll also need a timer. The entire routine only takes 6 mins. I try to remember to do this routine at least 2-3X per week.
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