Calf strength exercises. Tibialis posterior

The exercise

Here are some exercises we give patients at Get Strong physiotherapy & osteopathy to strengthen the tibialis posterior muscle in the calf.
Tibialis posterior strengthening exercises are a great way to improve the function of the medial arch of your foot! Great for runners.

How to do it

The first exercise is easier with a partner holing the band at 45 degrees from your foot and maintaining tension throughout the exercise. Turn your foot outward but keep your toes, especially the big toe in contact with the floor at all times! You want to feel the muscles in the inner arch of the foot working. Brace your knee to stop it dropping inwards.

The second exercise is similar with a your foot on a towel, knee bent at 90 degrees, slide to turn your foot inwards keeping your big toe firmly planted on the floor at all times! You want to see the inner (medial) arch if the foot raise. If you feel the muscles cramping in the inner arch of the foot area or calf, you're working the right muscles! Relax for a short period then continue.