Why Feet?

“My dogs are barking!” How often have you heard that?

There was a period in my life where I would often curse my feet after I had spent most of the day on them. During my 20s and 30s, I mostly made a living by working as a waiter or manager at various restaurants. The shifts were long. I couldn’t afford good shoes. I never thought twice about my feet until they were screaming at me to sit down.

I've left my restaurant career behind and now work as a mechanical designer and coach. My days are mostly spent leaning forward and staring at a computer monitor. While I've managed to trade aching feet for neglected hips and shoulders, I realize the importance of staying active and maintaining overall physical fitness as I enter middle age.

In the realm of fitness coaching, discussions about foot-related subjects rarely arise for any meaningful length of time. The focus primarily lies in the pursuit of "Bigger, Stronger, and Faster." Given people's aspirations for increased performance, this inclination towards weightlifting and extending running durations is understandable. However, understanding foot biomechanics can significantly aid athletes in reaching these goals. Furthermore, appreciating the importance of foot health can have far-reaching effects on overall wellness, amplifying its benefits beyond just athletic performance.

Taking care of our feet goes beyond looking good in sandals and lessening pain. Foot health is an important aspect of supporting an active and fulfilling lifestyle. When our feet are healthy, we can be active when and how we want to. This promotes cardiovascular health and the development or maintenance of a healthy body composition. Additionally, proper foot care reduces the risk of common foot ailments such as infections, blisters, and ingrown toenails, which can restrict mobility and cause constant discomfort. By prioritizing foot health, we improve our balance and posture, reducing the likelihood of falls and injuries. Healthy feet contribute to improved mental well-being as we experience less pain and discomfort, allowing us to focus on other aspects of our lives. Taking care of our feet is not only a matter of comfort but a proactive step toward a generally healthy lifestyle.

Understanding how our feet work will benefit individuals of all ages and activity levels. By understanding how the foot functions, we can identify and correct any abnormalities or imbalances. This will help reduce the risk of developing conditions such as plantar fasciitis, achilles tendinitis, shin splints, or stress fractures. Moreover, understanding foot biomechanics is essential for athletes as it can enhance performance. By considering gait patterns, for example, athletes can improve movement, become more efficient, and increase power output. Additionally, understanding of foot biomechanics helps with the right footwear choices that will provide optimal support and alignment, ensuring comfort and reducing the likelihood of foot discomfort and pain. Lastly, knowledge of foot biomechanics can empower individuals to take proactive measures to maintain foot health, such as practicing strengthening exercises, stretching, and adopting proper foot posture, ultimately leading to improved overall well-being and quality of life.

Being steady on our feet makes everyday activities easier. As we age, foot-related issues can become more common, such as fallen arches, arthritis, and stiffness. By caring for our feet, we can reduce the risk of these problems and hold on to our mobility and independence.

My goal is to bring awareness to the significance of foot health and present practical, understandable, and actionable information. I'd like the reader to fully understand what goes on "where the rubber meets the road."

So, the next time you prepare to exercise, take a moment to appreciate what’s going on under those expensive trainers. Pay attention to your feet, and make foot care a habit. Your feet carry you through life, and by nurturing them, you can stay active, resilient, and ready to conquer whatever challenges come your way.