Ankle range of motion exercise: point and flex foot

Start Position

Do this exercise either sitting or lying on back with legs long (you may also point and flex with knee folded up)
(If seated, feel free to cross your legs).

Point and flex the feet:- Action

Point the toes away from you
Bring the toes up toward you
Repeat slowly and with full range of motion to stretch the joints of the ankle and foot
10 times each foot

Comments

The wheels on your car have to stay balanced and aligned for optimal function and the same applies to your feet.

(ankle range of motion exercise: point and flex the foot, scroll right>>>>....)

Flex and Point the Foot:
Start Position
Action:
Flexing the Foot	Pointing the Foot

Watch Point

Keep foot and lower leg aligned: no sickling as you point away

What it does

This exercise teaches the ankle and foot to move "in line". Any tendency to buckle to the side (as for example in twisted ankle) is reduced(1).
Pilates exercises often include instructions to point or flex the foot, so it is worth while to learn what this means!

Reference

The Official Body Control Pilates Manual Available from: http://www.bodycontrol.co.uk/
Bruce Thomson: Engage Gluteus maximus!