Your foot is more than a rigid platform inside your shoe. It is a dynamic structure made up of bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and sensory receptors that help you: Absorb force Adapt to the ground Maintain balance Push off while walking or running Control the arch Transfer force into the leg The short-foot exercise is a simple drill used to improve awareness and activation of the small muscles that support the foot. It may be useful for runners, hikers, skiers, li