Quiz the Coach - I Have Weak Ankles!
Hey Coach,
I constantly sprain my ankles anytime I play friendly or competitive basketball. Is there a way to make my ankles stronger?
lil_baller23
Hey lil_baller23
You're not alone with your anxiety over ailing ankles. Around 850,000 people in the the United States sprain their ankles each year, with many of those happening on the basketball court. Ankle injuries are usually caused when a player steps on another player's foot or when a player lands awkwardly after jumping in the air.There are several exercises you can do to improve the strength and flexibility in your ankles. Your ankle moves in four basic directions: up, down, to the inside and to the outside. Use your hand or a friend's hand to apply a little resistance while the ankle moves in each of these directions. You can also strengthen your ankle through balancing exercises. Try standing on your injured foot alone, with your hands on your hips, without wearing a shoe. Try this for 20 seconds, three times a day. Once you get better, try it with your eyes closed. This will improve your balance and strengthen your ankle. But before you try any of these or any other exercises, talk to your doctor or P.E. teacher. They should be able to show you the proper way to do the exercises and take a closer look at your ankle.
You can also prevent ankle injuries by wearing a good pair of sneakers. High-tops usually provide better ankle support, so talk to a knowledgeable person at a sporting goods store to find out what kind of sneakers are best suited for you.
Do you need tips or advice on sports, fitness or health? Send it to the Kidzworld Coach. Keep in mind peeps, the Kidzworld Coach isn't a doctor or a professional athlete or anything like that. He's just a dude who digs sports, plays 'em and knows a lot about 'em. You should always talk to your 'rents, a doctor or your school gym teacher before starting a new sport or a new exercise.
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