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Some of the most common injuries while hiking are twisted or sprained ankles, and knee pain and joint inflammation.
As a result, at the very least, whole trips can get cut short. At the worst, we end up with a lingering, recurring injury- as once we damage those nerves in an injury just as an ankle sprain, we are then more likely to sprain that joint again in the future.
By strengthening the muscles surrounding our joints and increasing our stability threshold, we can improve our resistance to injury by both hiking in a more efficient manner, and being more able to keep ourselves upright on the trail.
Important note 1: These exercises are designed to be most effective when performed in a slow, controlled tempo. When utilizing step-downs, or when returning a foot to the ground, we want to resist gravity to maximize our benefit from the exercise
Important note 2: These exercises should be performed regularly for maximum benefit. Muscles, tendons, and stabilization systems take time to grow. Perform these exercises often, so that when you go for a hike, you're ready!!
Stand on elevated surface
Lifting one leg, lower self with supporting leg
Lightly lower self to touch heel of non-supporting leg to floor
With a controlled motion, raise self back to standing with supporting leg
Alternate legs and repeat
Standing with legs armpit-width apart, feet angled out slightly (25°-30°)
Keeping core engaged and braced, raise weight to under chin
Keeping core engaged and braced, slowly lower into a comfortable squat
Pause at the bottom of the squat, and slowly raise back to starting position
Keep knees over toes, not letting knees fall inward.
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, facing aerobic deck
Place foot on Aerobic deck, and step up
Raise self with foot on Aerobic deck, pausing at the top and regaining balance
Slowly lower self to beginning position, resisting gravity on the way down
Arms may be utilized, but tempo should remain slow for maximum benefit.
Beginning position is a rear lunge with back foot elevated
Enter lunge, keeping weight on front leg
Raise self out of lunge and repeat for full set of repetitions.
Rest, Switch legs, and repeat.
- NOTE- The Rear leg should not be elevated so high that the hip twists outward during the lowering portion of the exercise. The hips should remain facing forward to avoid movement compensations. If the hips can't remain forward during this exercise, lower the rear leg.
Enter into a side lunge, with feet turned out slightly (25°-30°)
Keeping the knees in line with the toes, and core braced,
Hold side lunge, and slowly shift into a side lunge on the other side.
Keeping center of gravity low, slowly repeat and shift weight.
Keep core braced and chest proud during entire exercise.