Tap Dancing – Protect Your Feet and Ankles

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Do you love to dance? Tap dancing is one style that is not only a ton of fun and highly entertaining but is also a great workout! It incorporates the muscles from your head to your toes and takes a lot of stamina and endurance. Depending on the intensity of the movement, a tap dancer could burn up to 315 calories in an hour of dancing.

What about feet and ankles during tap dancing?

It goes without saying that the most important tool you have in tap dancing is your feet. Like many other activities and sports, protecting your body is key to prevent injury. Feet and ankles can take a beating with the stresses of tap dancing and protecting them will ensure you don’t miss a beat.

Don’t skip the warm up. Stretching and warm up are very important. Focus on your leg muscles like you would before a run and warm up and loosen your ankle muscles. Rotate your foot in circles and flex back and forth.

Wear the right shoes. Tap shoes should fit snugly while not being too tight. If your feet are slipping around you will increase the risk of your ankle rolling or twisting. Try to avoid going barefoot as well as sweaty feet can lead to fungal infections.

Stay focused at your level. Trying movements that are beyond your capability will increase your risk for injury. Work your way up with practice and make sure you are performing combinations technically correct.

Dr. Tina Boucher, foot and ankle specialist in Meriden, CT treats all ages of dancers on a regular basis. If you are a dancer with any concerns about your foot health or have an injury that needs treatment, don’t hesitate to call our podiatric office today. Make an appointment by calling (203) 238-3668 or visit us at www.centralctfootcare.com.

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