Whether you’re walking, running, or lifting weights, you can benefit from a dynamic foot warmup before you start. Flexibility and responsiveness at the feet is key for nearly every type of workout, and will result in better alignment and biomechanics throughout your body.
Warming Up Right
The goal of a warmup is to elevate your core temperature and increase the blood flow to the muscles you’re working. Think active movement, rather than lengthening stretches.
I like to pay special attention to the feet with my warmup. If you just shove your feet in a pair of shoes and take off, you totally miss an opportunity for better performance.
With a dynamic foot warmup, your brain essentially says, “Oh yes, I remember all the ways my feet can move and respond.” Then, when you begin your workout, you’ve established better communication between your feet and your movement control center – your brain. This improved connection leads to stronger feet, better balance, and better alignment.
The dynamic foot warmup below is best done barefoot. If you need to keep your shoes on, those with a large toe box (enough room to wiggle and spread your toes) will be super helpful.
Incorporate this dynamic foot warmup into your workouts to establish a better connection between the brain and the feet. This activation of the foot muscles will carry over into better alignment, control, and performance.
Stay fit!
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Stronger Feet: Foot Doming in Three Steps