Foot Care After Class: Check, Dry and Blisters
A self-care routine for the feet at the end of class: checking for rubs and blisters, drying, toe mobility and checking how shoes are laced. Students learn simple habits that prevent discomfort and infections and that they can use in any sport.
How to play
- Sitting on the floor or a bench, students who want to remove shoes and socks and check heels, toes and soles for red spots or blisters (2 min).
- Dry carefully with their own towel, especially between the toes, and explain why moisture encourages athlete's foot (1 min).
- Mobility: spread the toes, grab the towel with them and do ankle circles, 30 s each (2 min).
- The teacher shows how to handle a blister (don't pop it, clean it and cover it with a bandage) using the first aid kit (2 min).
- Lacing check: teach the heel lock using the last eyelet to prevent rubbing, and everyone puts their shoes back on (1 min).
Rules
- Nobody has to take off their shoes; anyone who prefers not to does the mobility with shoes on and checks their feet at home.
- Each student uses only their own towel and socks.
- Blisters are not popped or handled: only the teacher uses the first aid kit.
- Work seated in a clean, dry area.
Variations
Easier
Do only the visual check and toe mobility.
Standard
Check, dry, mobility, blister care and lacing technique.
Harder
In pairs, each student checks the wear on their shoes and decides whether they are still suitable for exercise.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility or difficulty reaching the feet: use a hand mirror, or explain how to do the check at home with help.
- Diabetes: stress daily checks and recommend consulting their health care team about any wound.
- Autism or touch sensitivity: the student may skip the towel contact and do only the mobility.
Learning goals
- Build hygiene and foot-care habits linked to physical activity.
- Know how to handle a blister correctly.
- Prevent rubbing by choosing and lacing shoes well.
Equipment for a class of 25
- towels: 30
- first aid kit: 1
Teacher tip
Tell students the class before to bring a small towel and spare socks. It is especially useful before hiking or long-distance running units.
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