No, not your legs, your feet.
It’d be understandable if you assumed that going for a jog or performing specific stretches would fully engage your entire lower body. However, engaging in a jog benefits your legs greatly, but your feet might not be receiving the complete advantages. The reason is that wearing shoes essentially turns your foot into a flat surface at a 90-degree angle, resulting in minimal attention to the joints and ligaments of your toes and heel. Having stronger and more supple toes can enhance your running performance significantly, as they are crucial for swift pivoting and maintaining balance.
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If jogging is your preferred activity, you can effectively target your toes while running; you just need to be innovative. For instance, if you have access to a clean stretch of terrain like a beach, try running barefoot. Without the cushioning of shoes, your toes will have to work harder to adapt. If barefoot running is not feasible, consider wearing minimalist shoes with reduced padding and less restrictive designs. These shoes should provide adequate protection from rough surfaces like rocks and shells, while still allowing your toes to sense the ground beneath.
There are also specialized toe-focused exercises you can attempt. For instance, if you have a container of marbles or other small, smooth objects lying around, scatter them on the floor and spend a few minutes picking them up and moving them using only your toes. By performing these precise movements, you stimulate your toes to flex and move in unconventional patterns. Do you have a hand towel? Pick it up with your toes and use them to drag the towel toward your foot. It’s like a hand grip exercise, but for your feet.
Keep in mind that each muscle and joint in your body is unique, so make sure to give them the attention they need for a well-rounded physique.
