5 Benefits of Barefoot Training: Why Going Shoeless Can Help Improve Your Health and Well-being.
Since its inception in 2016, CLIENTEL3 has promoted barefoot training and has a strict no-outdoor shoe policy in the studio. We prefer that everyone in the studio train barefoot or in socks if there are no physical ailments that require footwear to be worn during exercise. Besides just making it a much cleaner environment to train in, there are additional benefits that range from our neurological system to combatting flat feet. So I’d like to explore this concept further and explain the benefits on a deeper level. I had the opportunity and pleasure to speak with Tyler Allan, a representative for Vibram – the makers of the FiveFingers shoes, to discuss all things barefoot training related. Enjoy the insights from my Q&A with Tyler:
Q: How were you introduced to barefoot training and elaborate on your barefoot journey?
TA: I started working for Vibram in 2011 and began running in FiveFingers on my lunch breaks. I took it slow per the recommendation of my colleagues and slowly but surely got to the point where I felt comfortable running with a mid-foot strike. 12 years later I’m still loving my FiveFingers!
Q: What trends have you seen since you started barefoot training?
TA: Working for Vibram has allowed me to connect with dozens of pro athletes, trainers, and coaches around the world. Athletes are constantly searching for new ways to gain an edge on the competition and many are starting by taking a look at their feet. The validation we see in the fitness industry in particular has been eye-opening. It seems that barefoot training or training in a minimalist shoe has been steadily growing over the last 10+ years.
Q: Can you tell me about some of the benefits of barefoot training that you personally experienced and also what are some other benefits that might not be as visible and apparent?
TA: The whole idea behind Vibram FiveFingers is to mimic the barefoot experience while providing grip, traction, and protection. Over the years I’ve noticed my body feels the best when I’m able to keep my feet free of arch support and cushioning. The few times I have to wear structured boots in the winter I start to feel an imbalance in my posture which results in various ailments. It’s difficult to describe the specific effects of freeing your feet but for me, it’s always been a positive experience.
Q: Who would benefit most from barefoot training?
TA: Anyone who is exploring new ways to explore how their body works. Most of the Vibram FiveFingers community begins their journey with fitness, running, water sports, or adventuring in the outdoors. For those that haven’t tried a minimalist shoe, I’d recommend giving it a shot to experience it for yourself.
Q: What are some of the foot issues you have noticed that arise from using traditional or overly supportive footwear?
TA: The most common foot ailment I hear about is plantar fasciitis, which can be affected by weak/atrophied foot muscles. While there are many schools of thought on how to resolve this issue we have heard many positive experiences from our community on utilizing minimalist footwear and/or going barefoot more often to address these issues.
Q: What steps would you recommend for someone with no barefoot experience but who wants to explore this?
TA: First I would recommend researching online the various methodologies behind going barefoot and wearing minimalist shoes. The biggest advice I give to new users is to transition slowly – the human foot is complex with 33 joints and a variety of intrinsic muscles. It’s important to ease into the process of removing arch support and cushioning as your body will need time to adjust.
Barefoot training, also known as barefoot exercise or natural movement, is a type of physical activity that is performed without shoes. While it may seem counterintuitive to go shoeless during exercise, there are actually several potential benefits to barefoot training that can help improve your health and well-being. Here are five reasons why you should consider giving barefoot training a try:
1. Improved balance and proprioception:
By removing the shoes, barefoot training forces the body to engage the muscles in the feet and ankles to maintain balance and stability. This can help improve proprioception, which is the body’s ability to sense its position in space. Improved proprioception can help prevent falls and injuries and make everyday activities, such as walking and running, easier and more efficient.
2. Stronger feet:
Walking and running barefoot can help strengthen the muscles in the feet, which can improve overall foot health and reduce the risk of foot injuries. Stronger feet can also help improve the body’s overall alignment, which can help prevent aches and pains in the knees, hips, and back.
3. Better posture:
Barefoot training can help improve posture by encouraging the body to engage the muscles in the feet, ankles, and lower legs, which can help support the spine and reduce strain on the back. Better posture can not only help you look and feel better, but it can also improve your overall health by reducing the risk of chronic conditions such as back pain and arthritis.
4. Increased flexibility:
By removing the shoes, barefoot training allows the feet to move more freely, which can improve flexibility in the feet and ankles. Improved flexibility can help make everyday activities, such as walking and running, easier and more efficient, and can also help reduce the risk of injuries.
5. Improved sensory feedback:
Walking and running barefoot allows for better sensory feedback from the feet, which can help improve overall body awareness and coordination. Improved sensory feedback can help you move more efficiently and with greater control, which can help prevent falls and injuries, and can also improve your performance in sports and other physical activities.
One study found that barefoot running can lead to improved balance and proprioception, which are important for maintaining stability and control during physical activity. This is because running barefoot forces the foot and ankle to adapt to the surface, which can improve the sensitivity of the sensory receptors in the feet and improve the ability of the brain to process information from these receptors.
Additionally, barefoot running can help to increase foot and lower limb strength, as the muscles in the feet and lower legs have to work harder to provide support and stability without the support of shoes. This can improve overall foot health and may help to prevent common foot injuries, such as plantar fasciitis.
Overall, barefoot training may provide a number of neurological benefits, including improved balance and proprioception, increased foot and lower limb strength, and better body awareness. Barefoot training offers many potential benefits for your health and well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting to get active, going shoeless during exercise can help you move better, feel better, and enjoy the many benefits of natural movement. However, it’s important to note that barefoot training may not be suitable for everyone, and it’s always a good idea to talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program.