To run without wearing shoes is known as barefoot running.
Similarly, minimalist running includes the use of thin-soled, flexible
footwear. In history, to run without shoes was practiced by virtually
everyone. Nowadays, it is not common in areas of the world that are
industrialized, but it is still being done in many poorer countries
where people cannot afford shoes.
Most athletes wear athletic footwear while in competitions, this is
especially true of runners. Although there are some record-holding
Olympic Champions who have become successful runners without their
shoes. Supporters of this practice believe that the exercise is
healthier for the feet when a person does not wear a padded shoe.
Little research has been done on this topic, but it is believed that
shoeless runners are at a lower risk for chronic and stress injuries.
The mechanics vary with or without shoes. With padded footwear the foot
is more likely to land on the heel first, then the forefoot. Barefoot,
or with thinner shoes, the feet tend to land on the lateral forefoot,
rolling in, letting the heel drop and then pushing off with forefoot or
lifting using the leg.
Jogging became more popular in the 1970s, leading to the creation of
athletic footwear. Since that era, this footwear has been linked to
many injuries of the foot and legs. Many avid runners have switched to
their bare feet to relieve pain from their chronic injuries. It is
natural for the feet and legs to absorb shock from landing and create
energy from motion, using the foot arch as a spring.
However, when large amounts of padding are added to the equation, feet
land on the heel, instead of the ball of the foot. This keeps the arch
and lower legs from absorbing the shock, which is instead sent through
the heel up to the hips and knees. Many studies that have been
conducted confirm the likelihood of developing chronic injuries as a
result of using athletic footwear.
One does not need to go shoeless to get this same effect. There are
many different designs of shoes that offer minimal padding. For
example: moccasins and thin sandals. These offer a barefoot-like
experience, but still protect the skin and feet. There are many shoe
manufacturers now producing footwear that is flexible and comfortable,
mimicking the shoeless experience.
There are advantages and disadvantages to consider. Practicing this
activity without footwear can strengthen the muscles. The lack of
footwear eliminates the cost of expensive athletic footwear. It is
believed that this takes up less energy as well. But there are also
downsides. Without a thick-soled shoe, runners can be in danger of
injuries caused by landing on sharp objects, such as glass. Achilles
tendonitis is more likely to occur because the heel is being struck so
often and to change that habit from heel striker to midfoot or forefoot
striker, tendonitis can develop.
Barefoot running is the activity of running without wearing shoes.
There are many supporters and non-supporters, but research shows that
there may be benefits in leaving the shoes off. Individuals who do not
feel comfortable wearing no shoes, can wear one of the many different
shoes designed to mimic the barefoot feeling.
