3 Ways to Improve Ankle Mobility
In order to achieve the perfect squat, we must start with the foundation: our feet.
Just like building a house, the squat is taught from the ground up: step 1 always consists of getting the feet into proper positioning. So why do we sometimes skip over the foundation when warming-up for a squat session? If you’re having trouble getting into the squat (and I’m talking even an air squat) and your chest is dumping forward drastically, take a look at your ankle flexibility. Chances are that’s a good place to start.
Good ankle flexion can be achieved with the following tools:
- Roll the surrounding areas to loosen up any tightness:
bottom of the feet and calves
2. Dragon stretch:
place foot to the inside of the hands; drive the heel to the ground while slightly pressing that knee over the toe
3. Bands will make you dance:
tie a band around the bottom of the pull-up rig; place your foot in the band facing away from rig, band around the front of the ankle; drive your heel to the ground while slightly pushing the knee over the toe
Ankle mobility, although seemingly unimportant, can make a big difference in your squat positioning. Take a few minutes to prep the ankles before putting yourself under a load. And be kind to these joints…they absorb so much impact on the daily.
For more training information and tips, head to http://www.crossfitact.com/?page_id=13488
