To run in shoes or to run barefoot? Barefoot running is a very hot topic among runners. Have you been wondering if it’s time to toss the running shoes and embrace a carefree, ‘barefoot’ lifestyle?
Today more people are beginning to enjoy their daily runs ‘as nature intended’ with feet that are completely bare. You have to admit that there is something very appealing about being able to ditch your footwear and experience the grass and sand beneath your ‘shoe-less’ feet.
Running barefoot makes it possible to move with a smooth, natural gait. Your steps will be efficient, light, and the movements will flow effortlessly throughout the complete run.
There are now a large number of barefoot runners who practice this natural running style throughout the world. These individuals are devoted to their newfound freedom and now this subculture of ‘barefoot runners’ has begun to grow and expand.
Don’t want to risk damaging your feet? You may consider buying barefoot running shoes.
A Reason To Shuck The Shoes?
Did you know that according to studies and surveys nearly a full third of all runners are suffering from some type of foot injury each year? These problems range from damaged arches to sprains and broken bones.
Many running enthusiasts feel that going barefoot makes it possible to avoid many of these routine ‘foot related’ sports injuries.
There are some debates however concerning whether or not a lack of shoes will really reduce the number of foot related injuries that are experienced annually.
Does Efficiency Count?
There is also the fact that many people consider this to be the most efficient way to run. Without the added weight and restrictions of wearing shoes some individuals have shown a 4- 5% improvement in their running habits.
For some runners their barefoot running technique gives them the freedom they need to move quickly and effortlessly. They realize that their movements and reactions are faster and more efficient when shoes are not in the picture.
To a dedicated runner an improvement of even a very small percentage point is reason enough to commit to a ‘barefoot runner’ lifestyle.
Going For The ‘Strong’
When comparing barefoot runners to those runners who wear shoes it has been proven that those who wear traditional footwear do have weaker feet. The reason for this is that the constant use of athletic footwear leads to a reliance on the shoes instead of on the inherent musculature and function of the feet.
When a person relies upon shoes when running the arches, tendons and arches begin to lose their strength and structure. After all, the shoes have extra cushions; extra foot support, improved arches and other features that pretty much do much of the supportive work that your foot muscles were intended to perform.
Could Shoes Be Hampering Your Run?
By depending on high tech shoes when you run you are not changing any inherently incorrect biomechanics. In fact it seems to be the ‘lazy way’ out when you wear running shoes and expect them to improve problems with your feet that you could correct yourself with a little effort.
There are many who do believe that a shoeless runner has a better chance to maintain healthy, strong feet. They say that by forcing your feet and foot muscles to do the job, unassisted by supportive footwear, is the true path that will lead you to better running mechanics and powerful feet and legs.
Barefoot Running Benefits
- It promotes a natural style of running.
- Your body balance will be improved.
- You may feel ‘grounded’ and connected to nature as they plant each foot solidly on the running surface.
- You may reduce the chance of developing tendon tears, muscle pulls and other injuries by naturally stretching and strengthening your calf muscles and achilles tendons.
- Your running gait will be natural for your size, body and leg stride.
- Your arches will strengthen as they are forced to act as shock absorbers for your body.
- It forces you to make a natural landing on the front part of your foot as opposed to coming down on your heel, which is common with ‘shoe wearing’ runners.
Barefoot Running Injuries
- You may experience pain in your feet if you have rarely (or never) attempted running barefoot in the past.
- A beginning runner most probably gets blisters to the bottoms of his feets.
- You may have sanitary concerns.
- You will have no physical protection for your feet. This means that you could experience bruises, cuts and puncture wounds if your foot should accidentally come in contact with a piece of broken glass, a tack or a pebble.
Test Whether Running Barefoot Is Something For You
Naturally the final choice is up to each individual and running barefoot may or may not be suitable for you. You will have to explore the possibilities, pros and cons and then determine if you are ready to leave your running shoes on the sidelines.
As a third option it appears that some shoe companies have begun to manufacture some ultra-lightweight footwear that acts only as a covering for your feet. These shoes provide protection for the bottom of your feet but do not have those debatable built-in arch supports and cushions that have created such controversy.
Return from Barefoot Running to Running Shoes
Return to Marathon Training Tips home
