Each year we make a list of resolutions on New Year’s Day and by the spring, most of us have watched those same resolutions go by the wayside. If you’re one of the few who are still on track with your list, kudos to you. But for those of us who put exercise on our list in January, but have yet to live up to our commitment, here are some tips to get back on track.

 It’s a good idea to use this new season as an excuse to update your walking or running shoes. A new pair of shoes can often be just the incentive you need to get an exercise

routine started. If you’re new to walking or running, you will want to take it slowly at first and build up your stamina and endurance.

Walking is great exercise and you can rapidly increase your mileage and see results quickly. A podiatric physician is a great resource for suggestions about the best walking or running shoes.

At your next appointment, make sure to ask for his or her suggestions.  If you’re having foot pain when exercising, mention this to Dr. Michaels who can recommend solutions that will alleviate your pain and get you back into your exercise routine.  One common mistake often made by beginners is to leave out the stretching before and after exercise. Easy stretches prior to walking or running and a good five minutes of more rigorous stretches after exercise helps alleviate pain on the first day and on all subsequent days as well. Often, stretching can even help you to avoid injury. Common injuries that may be avoided are shin splints, ankle sprains and Achilles tendon pulls.

Find a buddy who has similar goals for exercise. On those days where you “just don’t feel up to it,” your buddy can give you motivation and get you back on the road. You can be the motivator for your buddy as well. Setting goals (such as walking four days each week) can also motivate you to keep up the good work.  Talk up your exercise routine. Once you tell your friends and family about your goals, you have more people to be accountable to and you can laud your successes every time you see them. The more people who know how hard you’re working, the more support you’ll get. Keep up the good work!

For further information about foot or ankle conditions, contact one of our foot and ankle surgeons at the Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Institute, LLC.  Visit us on the web at www.rfainstitute.com or make an appointment with one of our state of the art offices in Maryland:

Hagerstown 301.797.8554, 1150 Professional Court, Suite C, 21740

Frederick 301.418.6014, 2100 Old Farm Drive, Suite D, 21702