Exercising is an exhilarating activity – not only does it help you get in better shape, but it also makes you feel liberated and has a positive effect on your mood too.

However, these lively feelings can disappear and instead turn into unhappy experiences if you do not make the right choices before starting your exercise plan. Here are some of the most common reasons why people end up giving up their exercise routines:

Choosing the wrong footwear: Most of the time, new starters are unaware of the right kind of shoes to wear for their routines. These days, there are specific shoes for every activity that are designed to keep your feet comfortable throughout the process. People who have certain foot conditions, for example bunions or toe related issues, need to take extra precautions. They should consult a podiatrist before joining such programs because they might need orthotic support.

Choosing the wrong exercise program: Exercise enthusiasts tend to overdo or overexert, thinking they will get in shape faster that way. This is a wrong approach as your body needs time to get accustomed to the amount of exertion you put it through. High-intensity programs, especially after long periods of inactivity, cause more harm than benefit to your body. You need to start with a slower routine and then move up gradually.

Injuring yourself: People become too eager and push themselves too hard, or they just jump into the routine without warming up and stretching, or their posture is incorrect. All these could end up in an injury that could disrupt your exercise plan. In worse cases, one could suffer from Achilles tendonitis, ankle sprains or even fractures.

At Joseph Stuto, DPM we suggest you get an appointment with our foot experts at our offices in Brooklyn (718) 567-1403 and Brooklyn Heights (718) 624-7537, New York before you start your exercise plan. If you have started to feel the slightest bit of discomfort or pain in your feet and ankles, feel free to contact us at any of our office numbers listed above. Our board-certified podiatrist Dr. Joseph Stuto, DPM can help and guide you to recovery with any of your foot and ankle problems. For more information, you can browse through our extensive library on topics that best interest you.