Running is awesome exercise for your body and mind, there's no doubt about that. But a lot of people are taking it a step further, trying to return to their roots, and are now running barefoot. Okay, maybe not actually in their barefeet - I know around my neighborhood, if you tried that you'd end up stepping on a baby diaper or a broken bottle in under 30 seconds flat!
Some really do run barefoot, but many that don't use new barefoot shoes to still get the benefits of running with no shoes on at all - minus the foot full of doggy doo-doo.
Low-profile "barefoot" shoes are slightly different from regular athletic shoes. Here's how:
No cushioning - or very little - and a lightweight sole
You feet are free to move naturally - they're not held in place by the shoe
Minimal heel-to-toe drop (i.e., your toes are at the same height as your heel)
Very bendable
Let your toes naturally spread out in a wide toe-box
There are shoes out there for every level of barefoot athlete. Don't go overboard and get something super hard-core right off the bat. Instead, pick out some kicks with a little cushioning, especially if you're going to be running in them, not just general exercising.
Many of the traditional running shoe makers have barefoot shoes now. New Balance and Merrel both make some very attractive models.
Not wearing a shoe reminds you of the natural way your body is supposed to move. Just try walking outside on cement with no shoes on and you'll quickly see what I mean. You don't land on your heel - you land more in the center of your foot, absorbing and slowing the impact, and your toes will naturally spread out, giving you better balance and feel.
These phenomena have created many beneficial results for many different people. It can help get rid of or prevent chronic injuries all the way from the foot and ankle, through your shins and knees, to your lower back and hips.
Your balance can also improve by building the muscles of your feet, toes and ankles.
It doesn't matter how good of a runner you are or how far you currently go, don't go crazy when you start barefoot running.
Some really do run barefoot, but many that don't use new barefoot shoes to still get the benefits of running with no shoes on at all - minus the foot full of doggy doo-doo.
Low-profile "barefoot" shoes are slightly different from regular athletic shoes. Here's how:
No cushioning - or very little - and a lightweight sole
You feet are free to move naturally - they're not held in place by the shoe
Minimal heel-to-toe drop (i.e., your toes are at the same height as your heel)
Very bendable
Let your toes naturally spread out in a wide toe-box
There are shoes out there for every level of barefoot athlete. Don't go overboard and get something super hard-core right off the bat. Instead, pick out some kicks with a little cushioning, especially if you're going to be running in them, not just general exercising.
Many of the traditional running shoe makers have barefoot shoes now. New Balance and Merrel both make some very attractive models.
Not wearing a shoe reminds you of the natural way your body is supposed to move. Just try walking outside on cement with no shoes on and you'll quickly see what I mean. You don't land on your heel - you land more in the center of your foot, absorbing and slowing the impact, and your toes will naturally spread out, giving you better balance and feel.
These phenomena have created many beneficial results for many different people. It can help get rid of or prevent chronic injuries all the way from the foot and ankle, through your shins and knees, to your lower back and hips.
Your balance can also improve by building the muscles of your feet, toes and ankles.
It doesn't matter how good of a runner you are or how far you currently go, don't go crazy when you start barefoot running.
About the Author:
Think you're ready to buy a pair of barefoot shoes but think that toe shoes look rediculous? Then be sure to check out this full review of barefoot shoe styles and tips to select the right shoe for you!
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