Our ankle joint plays an integral role in our overall mobility; a strong ankle joint therefore makes movement easier and can prevent injury. To truly understand the importance of ankle strength, it’s a good idea to understand what our ankle does when we walk.

“When you walk – whether it is outside on the street or in the countryside – generally the ground is unstable,” explains Helen O’Leary, physiotherapist and pilates instructor at Complete Pilates.

“Your foot and ankle are designed to move and absorb force as well as tilt to account for these things,” she says. “If your ankles are strong, you are more likely to reduce the chances of injuring your ankle when it does rotate and move.”

She continues: “Strengthening your ankle also often includes your calf muscles and foot muscles. Working on these will also help your efficiency in walking, making it easier. Along with injury prevention and efficiency, this will also improve your balance.”

Ankle pain when walking? Here’s how to strengthen your ankles to tackle uneven terrain