Before your begin your run or your elliptical interval program, think about your feet. Your feet contact the pavement or your cardiovascular machine first.  Many exercise enthusiasts suffer from plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, small stress fractures. Why? It could be because you are not wearing the right shoes, your shoes are too old or you are not cross training with non-impact cardio choices.

First, you really need to determine your footprint. This means going to a reputable shoe store where they can test your walk/run and determine your foot size including arch. This may seem costly but it may save you from future doctor’s appointments and/ or restrictions from exercising.

If you are a runner or a bootcamp enthusiast, you really need to pick low impact cardio one to two days per week to give your feet a rest from the continuous pounding. It will burn equivalent calories. If not, plantar fasciitis and especially stress fractures may be right around the corner. Low impact cardiovascular exercises options are:

• Spinning classes
• Cycling outdoors
• Rowing
• Arc Trainers

If you are suffering from any of the above conditions, consult your physician. Stress fractures typically happen to the top of your foot and you need to rest and control the inflammation. If you are suffering from heel spurs or plantar fasciitis then cold pop can rolls, band flexion stretches and ice are great options.

Take care if your feet so you can continue your cardiovascular challenges!