If you’re like many of our Middlesex County patients at Feet First Foot Care Specialists, getting in shape may have been on your list of New Year’s resolutions. Being physically active has many pluses, both for your feet and your overall health. Maintaining an appropriate weight, improving circulation and flexibility are just a few of the many ways regular exercise can benefit you. However, we have seen many fitness plans fizzle without proper planning and preparation.

Here are three common pitfalls to fulfilling your exercise resolutions, and how to avoid them:

1. Blisters—you wouldn’t think something as small as a blister could have such a large and devastating effect on your fitness plans, but they’re painful enough to sideline you for a few days. And a few days then becomes a few more, and before you know it, your enthusiasm has petered out. Footwear is the most frequent reason for blisters. Be sure you have the right shoes for the activity you’ve chosen. If you’re starting a new sport or activity or haven’t replaced your shoes for a while, consider getting a new pair designed specifically for your fitness activity. Sock choice is also key. A type that wicks moisture away from the skin will prevent sweat from causing friction between your feet and your shoes, which leads to blisters.
    
2. Achilles tendonitis—this inflammation of the long tendon that runs down the back of your lower leg from your calf to your heel frequently happens at the start of a new fitness regimen. Why? Too often, patients start gung-ho on an exercise plan and hope to achieve quick results by starting strong. However, doing too much too soon—especially if you’re coming off a period of inactivity—can overstretch the Achilles tendon leading to pain and soreness. Gradually building up stamina and strength, increasing your fitness level over time is more likely to lead to injury-free success.
    
3. Motivation Disintegration—there are many reasons for this to occur. Choosing an activity, you don’t like to do, not setting realistic goals, and foot or ankle pain that develops from your workout are a few possibilities. Put some thought into what factors are important and attractive to you in a fitness plan and think long-term.

If you find yourself hurting from exercise, contact our Cromwell office promptly by calling 860-632-5499 and have your pain evaluated by our podiatrist, Dr. Adam Mucinskas, so you can get back on track with your fitness plan asap.