Should you be doing toe yoga?
We should start by answering a different question: What is toe yoga? First, let’s make it clear that we’re talking about “toe yoga” not “Yogatoes”. Yogatoes are a device used to spread/separate the toes and should be the topic of an entirely different post. Toe yoga is a set of exercises performed to improve the strength and flexibility of the feet and toes.
What are some examples of toe yoga exercises?
Doing things like trying to flex the toes downward against the floor, using the toe “muscles” to lift the toes upward, spreading and scrunching the toes are just a few examples, but there are many different types of variations that can be performed.
Why are these types of exercises important?
Even those of us who work out regularly tend to neglect the feet and toes as part of our exercise routine. Working on the strength and flexibility of the toes can not only help to alleviate some types of foot pain, such as plantar fasciitis, arch pain, and pain on the ball of the foot, but it can also reduce the risk of developing foot problems that tend to develop as we age, such as hammertoes and bunions. Having “fitter feet” is also beneficial for functional and alignment issues like overpronation and some types of knee, hip or back pain.
Is toe yoga really “yoga”?
You can call these exercises yoga and make them a regular part of your yoga routine or you can simply integrate them into your stretching and/or workout sessions. It doesn’t really matter what you call it.
Who should be doing toe yoga exercises?
These exercises are beneficial for anyone who wants to improve the strength and flexibility of their feet and toes. However, they are particularly important for those who have a history of foot problems, are starting to develop or already have foot deformities such as bunions and/or hammer toes, of or who have a family history of these issues.
Do you need special equipment to do toe yoga?
Absolutely not. If you Google it you will see many products out there that make all sorts of claims, the only thing you need to do toe yoga are your feet and toes.
What’s the best way to get started with toe yoga exercises?
If you are already participating in yoga classes, you should talk to your instructor. If not, there is a wealth of information about toe yoga, including instructional videos, available online. You should start slow with two or three exercises that address your particular issues and then build up from there. Is it possible to overdo it or get injured doing toe yoga? Like with all exercises you should be cautious not to push too hard, especially at the beginning. These are safe exercises, but it is possible to strain or even rupture the small muscles and tendons of the feet when they’re not used to this type of exercise. You should never be pushing to the point of pain and if you notice any discomfort the day after doing the exercises you should give yourself an extra day or two off in between.
Overall, we advocate for making toe yoga exercises a part of your physical routine. You will no doubt benefit from “waking up” some muscles to make them stronger and more flexible. Also, if you don’t already exercise regularly, this can be a great place to start building a fitness routine in the comfort of your home!
