Exercise and Your Feet: Slow and Steady Wins the Race

With its 155 acres, Lafreniere Park is the largest park in Metairie. Head on over and you can enjoy all sorts of family fun at the playgrounds, picnic areas, Frisbee golf course, and more. While you’re there, why not get a workout in too? There’s a jogging trail, and two outdoor recreational/exercise facilities. With so many options, it could be easy to get carried away and do too much too soon. Be careful, though. When it comes to exercise and your feet, it’s best to start out slow, especially if you’re out of shape.

With most activities, your feet absorb an extraordinary amount of pressure and stress. If you are carrying excessive weight, that load becomes even greater, and that can lead to a host of foot problems, including stress fractures, heel pain, Achilles tendinitis, and others. Your best bet, if you want to get back into shape, is to start by walking. Park a little further away from work or take an after dinner stroll. Making small goals will help to keep you focused on a gradual build-up of activity. To ward off injuries, make sure you warm your muscles prior to your walk. March in place a bit, touch your toes, or try some yoga to get your blood flowing.

For an added challenge, carry small weights to strengthen muscles as you pump your arms.

Having a support system is also a great help. Surround yourself with encouraging family members and friends—maybe some will even want to join you on your journey. Plus, you always have us at Gulf South Foot & Ankle, LLC. We’ll be happy to be with you every step of the way, helping to keep your feet healthy while you’re getting fit. Just call (504)-708-4810 for an appointment with Dr. Leon Watkins or Dr. Maria Markiewicz, or visit us in Metairie, LA.

Then you can head on over to the park.