Ankle Support for Working Out

Should I Wear an Ankle Brace While Working Out?

There are several benefits to wearing an ankle brace while working out:

• Enhanced Stability

Ankle braces are designed to provide additional support to the ankle joint. During workouts that involve movements like running, jumping, or quick changes in direction, the ankle is subjected to various forces that can cause it to twist or roll. For example, in sports such as basketball or soccer, players often make sudden stops and starts, and the risk of an ankle sprain is relatively high. Wearing an ankle brace helps to limit excessive inversion (rolling inward) or eversion (rolling outward) of the ankle, keeping it in a more stable position and reducing the likelihood of such injuries. This stability allows you to perform your workout movements with more confidence and less worry about accidentally hurting your ankle.

• Injury Prevention

If you have a history of ankle injuries, whether it's a previous sprain, strain, or tendonitis, wearing a workout ankle brace can act as a preventive measure. The ankle support offers continuous support to the weakened or previously damaged areas of the ankle, helping to protect them from further harm. For instance, someone who has had a mild ankle sprain in the past and is now resuming their fitness routine with activities like step aerobics or circuit training can greatly reduce the risk of re-injuring the ankle by wearing a suitable brace. It acts as a safeguard during the workout, minimizing the recurrence of old injuries and enabling you to continue your fitness journey without setbacks.

• Improved Performance

By providing stability and reducing the risk of injury, an ankle brace workout can also have a positive impact on your workout performance. When you're confident that your ankle is well-supported, you can focus more on executing the movements correctly and with greater intensity. For example, in running, a stable ankle allows for better transfer of power from the legs to the ground, improving your running efficiency and potentially even helping you increase your speed or endurance. Similarly, in weightlifting exercises that require a solid base, like squats or lunges, a supported ankle ensures proper alignment and balance, enabling you to lift heavier weights and perform more repetitions effectively.