Pilates Fitness Friday: Healthy Feet and Shoes

A woman relaxes on a sofa, feet in focus, enjoying a peaceful moment.

This week I want to take a moment to talk about our feet. They are often the most overlooked part of the body, yet they are literally our foundation. In Pilates we are used to working in bare feet, feeling the connection to the mat or the Reformer, spreading the toes, and releasing unnecessary tension. But when we move into other fitness activities, like our new Step class, the demands on the feet change. Suddenly we are not just walking, we are going up and down, loading the feet in new ways and asking them to support us differently.

One of the simplest ways to care for your feet is to keep them mobile and supple. Try placing a pencil or pen between each toe, gently spreading them apart. This can feel quite intense at first, but it works beautifully to release the fascia and encourage better alignment through the toes and arches. A few minutes each day can make a big difference to how your feet feel and how efficiently they support you.

Shoes also matter more than many people realise. A correct fit is vital not only for comfort but for long-term health. Shoes that are too tight, too narrow, or lacking in support can affect posture, balance, and even the way you walk. When choosing footwear for classes like Step, think about cushioning, stability, and whether the shoe allows your foot to move naturally.

Healthy feet mean better balance, more efficient movement, and fewer aches further up the body. Whether barefoot in Pilates or stepping up in trainers, remember to look after the base that carries you everywhere.