Ankle Circles
Ankle Circles is a great exercise to help improve flexibility and mobility in the ankles. To perform this exercise, you will need to use a sturdy object like a squat rack to hold yourself up. Then, lift the right leg up just around two inches from the ground and trace a circle with your big toe. Make sure to breathe normally and complete one circle for every repetition. When you are finished with the right foot, repeat the exercise with the left leg. There are no variations to this exercise.
Type:
Stretching
Muscles Used:
Calves
Level:
Beginner
Equipment:
None
Benefits Of This Exercise
- Improves flexibility and mobility in the ankles.
- Develops coordination, balance, and stability in the lower body.
- Helps strengthen the muscles in the lower legs.
- Increases range of motion in the ankles.
- Improves circulation in the feet and ankles.
- Reduces the risk of ankle injuries.
Step by Step Instructions For Ankle Circles
- Find a sturdy object, such as a squat rack, to hold onto for support.
- Begin by lifting your right leg off the floor, keeping it about 2 inches above the ground.
- Using your right foot, make a circular motion with your big toe as if you were drawing a large circle. Remember to breathe normally throughout the movement. Each complete circle counts as one repetition.
- Once you have finished with your right foot, switch to your left leg and repeat the same circular motion.
Variations: There are no variations for this exercise.
Warm Up Tips
- Use a sturdy object like a squat rack to hold yourself.
- Lift the right leg up just around two inches from the ground.
- Trace a circle with your big toe, as if you are drawing a big circle.
- Complete one circle for every repetition.
- Breathe normally as you perform the movement.
- When you are finished with the right foot, repeat the exercise with the left leg.
Variations: None
Ankle Circles Safety Tips
- Use a sturdy object like a squat rack to hold yourself.
- Lift the right leg in the air (just around 2 inches from the floor) and perform a circular motion with the big toe. Pretend that you are drawing a big circle with it. Tip: One circle equals 1 repetition. Breathe normally as you perform the movement.
- When you are done with the right foot, then repeat with the left leg.
- Ensure that the sturdy object you are using to hold yourself is stable and secure.
- Start with small circles and gradually increase the size of the circles as your flexibility improves.
- Pay attention to your body’s limits and avoid pushing yourself too hard or experiencing any pain.
- Keep your core engaged and maintain proper posture throughout the exercise.
- If you have any pre-existing ankle injuries or conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before attempting this exercise.
- Perform ankle circles on a non-slip surface to prevent any accidental slips or falls.
- Take breaks and rest if you feel fatigued or dizzy during the exercise.
- Listen to your body and stop the exercise if you experience any sharp or intense pain.
Incorporating Into Other Workouts
Ankle Circles can be incorporated into workouts as a warm-up exercise or as a part of a lower body or mobility-focused routine. Here are a few ways to include Ankle Circles in your workouts:
1. Warm-up: Start your workout by performing a few sets of Ankle Circles on each leg. This will help to warm up the ankle joints and increase blood flow to the area, preparing them for more intense movements.
2. Lower body routine: Include Ankle Circles as a part of your lower body routine. Perform a set of Ankle Circles on each leg before or after exercises such as squats, lunges, or calf raises. This will help to improve ankle mobility and flexibility, which can enhance your performance in these exercises and reduce the risk of injury.
3. Mobility-focused workout: Create a workout specifically focused on improving ankle mobility and flexibility. Combine Ankle Circles with other ankle exercises such as ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion stretches, ankle rotations, or ankle mobilization exercises. Perform multiple sets of Ankle Circles on each leg, aiming for a higher number of repetitions to challenge the ankle joints.
4. Rehabilitation: Ankle Circles can also be incorporated into rehabilitation programs for ankle injuries or conditions. Consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist to determine the appropriate number of sets and repetitions based on your specific needs and condition.
Remember to start with a few sets of Ankle Circles and gradually increase the intensity and duration