If you wear heels – your need to do these exercises...

High heels can make your legs look great while they’re on...

...but they can also shrink your calves and thicken your Achilles tendon. L.A. Pilates instructor Thalia Thomas says those high heels can wind up weakening your lower back, knees and ankles too. These basic stretches can strengthen your legs and improve your high-heel prowess:

• Plié in First Position: If you ever took ballet class – you already know this one. Heels together, toes apart – bend down, knees outward – and hold for 5 counts. Back up and hold for 5 counts – then repeat 20 times.

• Calf and Achilles Stretch: Lunge forward while holding onto a wall or counter. Straighten the back leg and touch the heel to the floor. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 3 times. This will stretch the calf muscle, which gets very short and tight from wearing heels. 

• Tennis Ball Stretch: Curl your toes over the ball. Roll the tennis ball along the ball of your foot to stretch the foot. Hold the stretch for 5 seconds. Switch sides and repeat.