Getting Back in the Game

At Patrick Fettinger, DPM we know that many of our Middlesex County patients are joining the rest of the country and slowly, cautiously trying to re-open their own lives. The stay at home time may have helped slow the spread of the virus, but it had some negative side effects for sure. One casualty may have been your exercise program. Now it’s time to get started again but you want to do so in a way that won’t result in foot or ankle injury. Below some tips on re-entering the fitness realm.

 

Get Your Head in the Game

The first hurdle to overcome for many is motivation. There are a number of psychological factors at play that may have left you feeling lackluster and indecisive about starting a new exercise routine. Think about why you want to get in shape. Is it to feel healthier, stronger? Look better? Have more energy? Replace negative speak (“I’m too tired, It’s too hot/cold/rainy, etc.”) with positive messages the verbalize your goals (“I want to fit into my jeans, play with my grandkids, run a 5K, etc.”).

 

Check Up on Chronic Podiatric Problems

If you have suffered from an ongoing foot disorder such as plantar fasciitisweak anklesflat feetcontact our New Fairfield (203-746-9660) or Middlebury (203-598-0357) office to schedule a consultation with our podiatrist, Dr. Patrick J. Fettinger. The foot doctor will want to know if there have been any changes in your condition and can also recommend the best types of exercise to accommodate any ongoing podiatric concerns.

 

Choose Your Program

Of course, if you had a fitness regimen that was working before the pandemic and it’s available you can go back to it. But now it is also an opportunity to try something new. With summer weather consider outdoor activities or a combination of fitness activities that will help burn calories and increase muscle strength. Whatever you decide on, make sure you start out slowly and increase the intensity of your workout gradually.

 

Check Your Gear

The most important piece of exercise equipment in our mind is your shoes. Choose a pair that is suited for the type of activity you plan to do. Get professionally fitted if possible. If you already have athletic shoes, examine them for any signs of wear before getting started.

 

Stay Motivated

Put exercise on your calendar like any other appointment. Set small goals and celebrate each one as you reach them. Choose an “exercise buddy” that can help keep you accountable. It won’t take long until you’re back in the fitness groove. If at any time you begin to experience foot or ankle discomfort, contact us promptly.

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