It’s the new year and we all have aspirations to be better, fitter, and healthier. To all of you, we wish you all the best and a very happy 2021!
It’s very unlikely to think that two muscles can literally stop you in your tracks. Whether it’s while you are running, cycling, or practicing certain exercises in the gym, if you have tight calves (or a lack of ankle dorsiflexion), your efficiency, strength, power, and/or endurance output will be less than optimal.
Let me explain. Dorsiflexion is when you ‘flex’ the ankle, moving the toes upwards, closer to your knee/shin. If your ankle lacks in this range of motion, you will not be able to extend the hip sufficiently (moving the knee backward/behind the hip). This means that the hip extensors i.e. your glutes (butt-muscles) will not activate properly. This results in shorter strides when running, a lack of hip extension during gym-related exercises, or a lack of glut activity during cycling.
There are many ways to improve the range of motion of your ankles. Try rolling your foot over a hardball at home otherwise, we recommend that you consult with your local fitness trainer, physio, and/or sports massage therapist before jumping in the deep end.
We are here to help so don’t hesitate to reach out.
On the lighter side of things, go get what you are after… break a leg ;)