Men’s Health Month may have ended, but the need for guys to improve their foot health continues. It’s summer, so what better way to tend to the feet than by playing sports? Summer offers men the perfect opportunity to embrace a more active lifestyle, build muscle, enhance heart health, and overall live healthier. In this article, we at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists will talk about why activity fuels men’s foot health and offer some great sports to participate in.
Why Activity Fuels Men's Foot Health
Consistent physical activity directly benefits men's feet and ankles by building stronger, more resilient structures. Regular weight-bearing exercise helps to maintain excellent bone density in the feet, which is crucial for preventing conditions like stress fractures, reducing strain, and providing stability.
Physical activity also dramatically improves circulation, which allows key nutrients to reach the lower extremities. This is especially great for managing or preventing issues like Peripheral Artery Disease, that are more common in men. It also helps with weight management; the lighter you are, the less pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis and arthritis.
Great Summer Sports for Your Feet and Ankles
With that said, men should consider these activities this summer:
- Walking and Hiking: These are fantastic, accessible, low-impact options. Walking strengthens the foot and ankle while improving circulation, while hiking on varied terrain further challenges ankle stability and builds supporting muscles without the jarring impact of running.
- Cycling: Whether on a road bike or a stationary bike indoors, cycling is a non-weight-bearing activity that's incredibly gentle on the feet and ankles. It's excellent for improving circulation and maintaining joint range of motion, which makes it ideal for those with existing foot pain, arthritis, or during recovery from certain injuries.
- Swimming and Water Aerobics: These aquatic options offer the ultimate low-impact workout. The buoyancy of the water eliminates virtually all stress on the feet and ankles while still providing resistance to strengthen muscles and improve joint mobility. It’s perfect for active recovery or for men with chronic foot pain seeking relief.
- Golf: Par for the course. Walking all 18 (or even 9) provides a substantial amount of gentle, sustained weight-bearing exercise over all types of terrain, which helps maintain strength and balance. The low-impact nature of the swing itself also means less stress on the joints compared to other sports.
- Tennis and Pickleball: These court sports are excellent for improving agility, balance, and quick footwork. However, men should ensure they have excellent, sport-specific footwear with strong ankle support and cushion, and gradually build up intensity to avoid common injuries like ankle sprains or Achilles tendonitis.
For any podiatric concerns you’re dealing with, come see Dr. Hubert Lee and the team at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists for guidance and advice. You can schedule an appointment online or call today at 425-455-0936.
