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🦶 Ankle ABCs

Ankle ABCs are a beginner ankle exercise that targets the tibialis anterior, peroneals, and calf. Trace the letters of the alphabet with your big toe. They're commonly prescribed during rehabilitation for Ankle Sprain, Achilles Tendinopathy, and Total Knee Replacement. Below is how to perform Ankle ABCs with correct form, plus the benefits, common mistakes, and how many reps to aim for.

AnkleBeginnerChair2 × 1

Benefits of the Ankle ABCs

  • Strengthens and activates the tibialis anterior, peroneals, and calf
  • Improves mobility
  • Supports recovery and rehab for Ankle Sprain, Achilles Tendinopathy, and Total Knee Replacement
  • Can be done with simple equipment (chair)
  • Performed sitting, so it's easy to set up

How to do the Ankle ABCs

  1. Sit in a chair with your foot off the ground
  2. Trace each letter A-Z with your big toe
  3. Move only at the ankle
  4. Make letters as large as possible

How many reps & sets

A common starting point is 2 sets of 1 rep. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.

Form tips

  • Uppercase for bigger range
  • Great while watching TV

Muscles worked

Tibialis anterior, Peroneals, Calf

When to be cautious

  • Acute fracture without clearance

Who should do the Ankle ABCs?

Ankle ABCs are often included in programs for people recovering from Ankle Sprain, Achilles Tendinopathy, and Total Knee Replacement, and for anyone wanting to strengthen the ankle. They're rated beginner.

Ankle ABCs — FAQ

What muscles do Ankle ABCs work?
Ankle ABCs primarily target the tibialis anterior, peroneals, and calf.
How many sets and reps of Ankle ABCs should I do?
A common starting point is 2 sets of 1 rep. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.
Are Ankle ABCs good for Ankle Sprain?
Yes — Ankle ABCs are commonly used in rehab for Ankle Sprain and Achilles Tendinopathy. Confirm with your clinician before starting, especially if you have pain.
Do I need equipment for Ankle ABCs?
You'll need: chair.
When should I avoid Ankle ABCs?
Take care or skip them if you have: acute fracture without clearance. When in doubt, check with your physiotherapist.
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