Boost Ankle Flexibility with Dustin’s Heel Raise Stretch
Trainer Dustin is in the gym demonstrating the heel raise stretch, an effective exercise to improve ankle flexibility, strengthen your calves, and enhance overall lower-body mobility. This stretch is perfect for athletes, runners, or anyone looking to prevent stiffness and injury.
How to Perform the Heel Raise Stretch: Start Standing: Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart and your hands resting on a wall, bench, or sturdy surface for support. Raise Your Heels: Slowly lift your heels off the ground as high as possible, balancing on the balls of your feet. Hold and Stretch: Pause briefly at the top, feeling the stretch in your calves and ankles. Lower Slowly: Gradually lower your heels back to the floor in a controlled motion. Repeat: Perform the stretch for 10–15 repetitions or hold at the top for 15–30 seconds to deepen the stretch.
Why It’s Effective: The heel raise stretch targets your calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) and strengthens your ankle joints, which are essential for stability, balance, and injury prevention.
Pro Tip from Dustin: Keep your movements controlled to avoid strain and maximize the stretch. For an extra challenge, perform the stretch on an elevated surface, allowing your heels to dip below the platform for a deeper range of motion. Watch Dustin’s video to learn the heel raise stretch and add it to your mobility or warm-up routine for stronger, more flexible ankles and calves!