Introduction

Foot gymnastic games and exercises intend to strengthen the muscles of legs and feet, to improve the motion sequences of walking and sports and also to have a positive effect on varicose veins and on dorsal pain. Such activities are especially recommended to improve the flat feet of children. In addition going barefoot (e.g. visiting barefoot parks) should complement the healthy training program for the feet.

Recommended program

Warm up with exercises to improve flexibility and coordination of feet and toes:

• moving and spreading toes,
• grabbing small objects,
• playing various skill games with the feet.

Continue strengthening the muscles of feet and legs:

• alternate walking on tiptoe and heels,
• balancing -- normal and on tiptoe,
• jumping on one or both legs,
• partner exercises like drawing a cloth or passing a stick with the toes;
• children may climb up their parents.

Relax at the end by walking around barefoot:

• walk on different soil materials,
• try to find out the materials with closed eyes!

It is important to exercise barefoot with both feet in turn.

Weblinks

• Foot Gymnastic Games (http://www.barfusspark.info/en/gymn.htm)

de:Fußgymnastik