Stretch of the Week: Small Skip Dynamic Warm Up
by JD Fields, DPT
AZOPT Goodyear Physical Therapist
Stretch type: Dynamic
This is going to be like a normal skip just quicker and shorter. To begin, start in a marching position and rise up on to your tip toes. Once in this position, continue to push off your toes into a small hop, landing on the same foot. Transition to performing the same movement on the opposite leg while swinging your arms and traveling forward. This should be done in short/choppy steps, not long swinging strides like a traditional skip. This will allow the calf muscles as well as other leg muslces ready for faster and more explosive motions. Perform 10 skips on each leg x3.
Why Perform This Stretch? Calf strains are one of the more common muscle strains in people participating in more intense recreational activities. Stretching, along with a dynamic warm up like this, can prevent this injury and help the muscles prepare for recreational activities.
Please note: Skipping is an activity that will require some balance and coordination. Start slowly and work in to quicker motions as you feel more comfortable.
