(by Mrs. Globe Team)
There are two things every pageant can promise you. 1: You may not win the crown and 2: Your feet will hurt. Though you cannot control the first option, the Mrs. Globe investigatory team has found three ways you can control the tootsie pain during your pageant competition.
1: Wear the Right Shoes
One of the most important things you can do to protect your feet during a pageant competition is to wear the right shoes. This means making sure your shoes are not too tight or too loose, as this can cause blisters and other foot injuries.
Professional Pointer:
To protect your feet during the pageant, opt to wear flats that have good arch support during all rehearsals.
2: Care for your Feet, Daily:
At the end of every day make sure you care for your feet by doing these two things: 1: Soak your feet in a warm salt bath and 2: Practice the “Butt on the Bed, Feet on the Wall” exercise. By soothing and elevating your feet, you give yourself a walking edge the next day.
Professional Pointer:
On your master packlist, include a bag or box of Epsom salt for your daily foot soak.
3: Use Protective Products
Finally, make sure you have protective products for your competition. This includes gel pads or inserts that will cushion your feet and provide additional support, reducing the risk of blisters or other foot injuries. Toe caps or toe sleeves can also protect your toes from rubbing against each other or the inside of your shoes.
Professional Pointer:
While there are several numbing sprays that can help you protect your feet during a pageant competition, we don’t recommend them. Numbing sprays contain a local anesthetic called lidocaine, which works by blocking nerve impulses in the area where it is applied. While this may provide temporary relief from pain or discomfort, it can also cause numbness, tingling, and a loss of sensation in the feet. This can be dangerous, especially during a pageant competition where you need to be aware of your surroundings and have full control of your movements.
Numbness in the feet can also make it difficult to maintain proper balance and posture, which are essential for pageant performances.