How to Keep Your Feet Healthy Enough for Taekwondo
In any endeavor or discipline, attention to basics is important, and much of Taekwondo is concerned with kicks. Consequently, the condition of your feet is essential to attaining perfection in the sport. To put it simply, if you are good to your feet and the rest of your body, you will find it much easier to excel at Taekwondo and enjoy the pastime. Here are some tips for taking care of your feet on the road to becoming a Taekwondo master.
Cut Excess Weight
Your weight can be very hard on your feet in many different ways. Having a weight issue is more likely to increase your chances of a number of painful foot conditions, including such things as tendon inflammation, plantar fascia issues or osteoarthritis. One common myth is that extreme obesity is the only way to develop these conditions. However, even 25 extra pounds can cause a serious issue to develop with your feet.
Trim Toenails
Part of getting your feet ready for Taekwondo is properly trimming your toenails. Of course, one of the primary reasons to do this is to avoid cutting other students with your rough and long nails, which is not only dangerous; it's also disgusting. Please trim your toenails. Please.
Taekwondo is a very physically demanding sport, and it's difficult enough for both you and your opponent without the additional risk of losing a nail. Long toenails could easily get broken and snagged. There is a basic principle to remember when cutting them. Make sure to trim your toenails straight across, as leaving them curved may result in an ingrown toenail.
Prevent Flat Feet
Flat feet can happen when the supportive arch of the foot starts to flatten down. This is often quite painful, but good foot care practices can help alleviate it. Purchasing orthopedic arch supports, switching out your footwear each day, getting comfort shoes and losing weight are all methods of preventing this condition from becoming a problem. It's also important to avoid dragging your feet on the mat, which can flatten your arches over time.
Wear Foot and Shin Guards When Sparring
Wise Taekwondo enthusiasts realize that incurring injuries during practice actually eliminates the value of practicing. If an injury must be incurred, it is preferable that it be sustained in a match where foot and shin guards are not allowed. However, there is no such restriction on practice. These guards can be extremely valuable as protection. Indeed, there are many areas of the world where such guards are a requirement in contact sports such as Taekwondo. Following these steps will help you take proper care of your feet. You'll need them in good condition if you wish to become accomplished at Taekwondo.
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