🦶 Zone 2,3 – Rear Arch Outer (Lateral Calcaneus & Cuboid Transition)

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.

🔬 Muscle & Structural Support

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.

🧠 Biomechanical Verdict

  • 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 & Collapse Dynamics

  • Torque generation? ❌ None — no muscle leverage here

  • Torque resistance? ❌ Weak — common site of ankle sprains

  • Collapse risk? 🔺 High — lateral tipping point

🩰 Use in Dance

  • 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

✅ Verdict

  • Torque Handling: ❌ None

  • Muscle Support: ⚠️ Indirect via tendons

  • Feedback Quality: ⚠️ Too slow to be useful

  • Stability: 🔴 Danger zone