This zone spans the outer rear portion of the heel, brushing against the cuboid and lateral edge of the calcaneus.
It’s where over-supination, ankle rolling, and stability nightmares begin if weight isn’t properly aligned.
| Structure | Type | Function | Relevance |
|-----------|------|----------|-----------|
| Peroneus longus tendon | Tendon | Stabilizes lateral arch | ✅ Relevant, but not directly under |
| Calcaneofibular ligament | Ligament | Supports lateral ankle | ⚠️ Passive support |
| Cuboid bone | Bone | Bridge to outer midfoot | ❌ Minimal surface area |
| Fat pad (lateral heel) | Cushion | Comfort only | ❌ Zero control |
Summary: Muscular control here is indirect, and lateral rolling is a real risk.
Without proactive engagement from peroneals, this zone is destined for instability.
Stability: 🔴 Poor
Torque Resistance: ❌ Very low
Feedback Quality: ⚠️ Delayed — too padded to respond quickly
“Zone 2,3 is where people think they’re grounded — until their ankle says otherwise.”
Torque generation? ❌ None — no muscle leverage here
Torque resistance? ❌ Weak — common site of ankle sprains
Collapse risk? 🔺 High — lateral tipping point
Should not be used for balance
May contact floor briefly during:
Turns with poor control
Botched step recoveries
Lateral misalignments
Best avoided in all deliberate poise work
Torque Handling: ❌ None
Muscle Support: ⚠️ Indirect via tendons
Feedback Quality: ⚠️ Too slow to be useful
Stability: 🔴 Danger zone