Live It Articles The First Step on a Happy Journey

Joshua 1:3 "Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that I have given to you."

One of my favorite units I teach to my Pre-Kindergarten students is the unit on transportation. I always begin by asking the students how they got here today. They will tell me they came by car, truck, motorcycle, or van. They will tell me what kind of vehicle their parents drive to transport them around town. Then I will re-phrase my original question, "How did you get into the classroom today?"

Just like my students, it has slipped our minds that our feet are our primary source of transportation. With skyrocketing gas prices, we still have our feet to transport us. The first few steps you take on any journey won't get you where you want to go, but without those first steps, there would be no getting to your final destination. To take the first steps on your physical journey you must exercise good foot fitness.

Foot care is of the utmost importance. Don't take your feet for granted.

Tips for Good Foot Fitness.  

• Wash your feet daily. Rinse off all soap and dry thoroughly, especially between toes.
• Trim nails straight across and not too short. Don't cut or dig at corners.
• Do not trim, shave, or use over-the-counter medicines to dissolve corns or calluses.
• Wear clean socks or stockings daily. Don't wear any that are too short or too tight.
• Wear shoes that fit.
• Sit with both feet on the floor.
• Massage your feet; stretch, and roll your foot from the ankle
• After working out, have a pair of flip flops or sandals ready to allow your feet to breathe and stretch.

Some people's feet sweat more than others and are more prone to athlete's foot. These tips may help:

• Wear shoes made of leather or canvas - not synthetics. Sandals are good.
• Wear socks that have the fiber "Cool Max." 
• Switch shoes from day to day allowing your shoes to dry out.
• Use foot powder.
• See your doctor if severe problems persist.

SHOE CONSTRUCTION

• Leather is best because it breathes like skin and molds to your foot. But cheaper canvas is fine for fast-growing children.
• Soles should be strong and flexible with a good gripping surface.
• Insoles should be cushioned to absorb the jolts of walking on hard surfaces.
• Arch supports distribute weight over a wider area. Rigid shanks also give added support.
• High heels are fun and look good, but they should not be worn too long at a stretch or for much walking. Besides cramping the toes, they change posture, creating the possibility for back strain.

THE RIGHT FIT

• Only you can tell if shoes fit. If they aren't comfortable, don't buy them!
• Don't plan on shoes stretching with wear. If you already own shoes that are too tight, ask your shoe repair shop if they can be stretched.
• Because feet spread with age, have your feet measured every time you buy shoes. Both feet should be measured, as they are often different sizes. Always buy shoes for the largest foot.
• Go shoe shopping late in the afternoon when feet swell to their largest.
• Size also depends on shoe make and style. Don't insist that you always wear one size if the next feels better.
• The toe box should be roomy enough to wiggle all your toes.
• Your forefoot should NOT be wider than your shoe.
• The heel should fit snugly and the instep should not gape open.
• If you can't find shoes that fit, ask your doctor for advice.

Feet are to the body what tires are to a car. When the tires wear out, the car won't go anywhere. If you have ever had foot problems, you will know when the feet hurt, the pain will slow you down. Those of us who exercise for health and to maintain a weight know how important foot care is to our physical performance.

Every place the sole of your foot touches has been given to you by the Lord; therefore, I really want the sole of my foot to feel like touching the ground.

Practice good foot fitness through the summer months. When thinking fitness, don't forget about your feet.

Good Foot Fitness = Happy Feet!

Press ON!

Beverly Henson
Certified Personal Trainer


Beverly Henson is a conference and rally speaker for the First Place ministry. She is also a Bible teacher and certified personal trainer. Beverly joined First Place in July 1997 and has lost 160 pounds. First Place has given Beverly a powerful testimony. She is the First Place Director and the Director of Wellness Ministries at Northcrest Baptist Church in Meridian, MS. She is also an area Networking Leader for First Place in Mississippi. Beverly has a genuine love of proclaiming the word of God to His people.