An underrated tool to help you become the best pickleball player you can be is strong ankles. Playing pickleball will help give you some strength in that area, but you will want to build up your ankles while you’re off the court as well. Here are some ankle exercises you can do between pickleball games:
Ankle circles
Take one foot at a time and rotate your ankles in both directions. You can also draw the alphabet with your toes.
Heel raises
Stand on the edge of a step or other platform, lift your heels, then lower them to below the step level. Keep your hands on a banister, railing, or other support. Make sure to do this exercise slowly so you are not bouncing.
Heel-to-toe walking
Walk in a straight line, placing one foot in front of the other. While you do this, place your heel down before your toes, with one heel landing on the floor right in front of the toes of your other foot.
Toe tapping
Sit on a chair with your feet flat on the ground. While keeping your heels on the floor, lift your toes and then tap them back down. Repeat this exercise a number of times.
Walking exercise
Walk in a straight line on your toes with your heels lifted. Then repeat, but with your heels on the ground and your toes lifted. Repeat again, but roll from your heel to toe, lifting your calf up on each step.
If you are looking to improve your pickleball game, focusing on your feet is a great place to start. This includes strengthening your ankles and wearing a high-quality pickleball shoe. As always, talk with your doctor before adding anything to your exercise routine.
