Elegant Ankles and Calves

Having strong ankles can help prevent ankle sprains and broken ankles. Weak ankles or calves can cause foot problems, sprains, poor circulation problems, and other health and body problems.  The following exercises can be done on a daily basis and don’t require rest. They are simple exercises that can even be done outside of the home, such as on your lunch break from work.

Foot Circles

These can be done in the comfort of a chair if desired. Take your right leg and extend it until your leg is straight out in front of you. In a circular motion rotate your foot. Imagine you are drawing circles with your feet and start turning your foot from the left side, all the way back to the starting position. Do this about 10 times for each leg. Once that is done repeat sequence but rotating from the right side to the starting center.

Ballet Toes

You will need a chair for this exercise. Stand with your right side up against a chair for support. This will help you from toppling over. Place your right hand on the chair and extend your left leg out to the side. Make sure to keep your toes pointed. Sweep your foot in a downward motion. It will almost look as if you were painting a picture with your foot. Do this for 10 times on each foot. Make sure to have slow and graceful movements.

Leg Raise

Sit on the edge of your couch or chair. Raise both legs so they are pointed straight in front of you. Hold for about 10 to 15 counts. You will feel a burn in your calves and your ankles. This is a good sign it is working the ankle and calf muscles.

Ankle Raises

Stand straight up against a chair. Once you have better balance you will be able to perform this exercise without a chair. Lift up so you are on your heels only. Your toes should be pointed towards the ceiling. Hold for about 6 to 10 counts. Repeat this sequence for each leg.