Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Wednesday Wisdom

Beating Blisters!! If there is one thing every athlete wants to avoid, it’s blisters on their feet. Though they’re small in size, these little guys can turn into major enemies if not treated properly...
With all the running, sliding and rapid directional changes athletes perform during training and boot camps, it’s no surprise that blister prevention and management are often top of mind. Some athletes go as far as replacing their socks and shoes during training.

Athletes are encouraged to take care of their feet themselves, athletes can added feet care management to their training routines. A lot of athletes will prepare their feet before they go out for their training to help with blister prevention. You can put blister plasters or padding under your feet and you can apply certain type of taping technique.

Here goes Blister Prevention 101.
  • Socks & Moisture Control - The number one cause for blisters is moisture. With that simple statement said, a good moisture wicking sock should be at the top of any blister suffering runner’s list. There are several good socks available, my personal favorite happens to be Smartwool PHD running or outdoor socks. Toe socks have also become very popular. Some runners also find it useful to sprinkle some talcum powder in their socks to help absorb excess moisture.
  • Lubricant - Many athletes will lubricate their feet in hopes of reducing any friction using Body Glide or another like product.
  • 2nd Skin Blister Pads - Taping feet beforehand has become a common practice. 2nd Skin will actually provide a barrier over the blister prone location.

I remember seeing a shirt at a run that read “Life is short and full of blisters.” Hopefully with these few steps it doesn’t have to be. Any additional thoughts, suggestions, insights, or recommendations? Take it away…

Happy Wednesday!!





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