Exercise Comparison
Ankle Circles vs Foot-SMR
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Instructions
Ankle Circles
Use a sturdy object like a squat rack to hold yourself.
Lift the right leg in the air (just around 2 inches from the floor) and perform a circular motion with the big toe. Pretend that you are drawing a big circle with it. Tip: One circle equals 1 repetition. Breathe normally as you perform the movement.
When you are done with the right foot, then repeat with the left leg.
Foot-SMR
This exercise stretches the fascia of the muscles in the feet. Start off seated with your shoes removed. Using a foot roller or a similar object, such as a small section of pvc pipe, place your foot against the roller across the arch of your foot. This will be your starting position.
Press down firmly, rolling across the arch of your foot. Hold for 10-30 seconds, and then switch feet.
Verdict
Both exercises target the calves. Ankle Circles is a beginner exercise using none, while Foot-SMR is intermediate and uses other. Choose Ankle Circles if you're looking for a more accessible option, or Foot-SMR for a greater challenge.