One of the major benefits of barefoot running is it helps flat feet grow taller AND more spring-loaded. This is because barefoot running keeps the feet fully engaged at a higher level, which increases muscles activation and tone throughout the entire foot AND ankle. The net effect here is stronger mid-foot muscles that are better able to uphold the arch. And, barefooting also enables the arch to work more effectively as an energy-saving spring and a foot-step stabilizer. In contrast, research to date suggests little or no improvements in foot functional strength in cushioned running shoes. Read more here on how barefooting and wearing minimalist shoes more often fixes flat feet in ways traditional running shoes could never do! One of the major benefits of barefoot running is it helps flat feet grow taller AND more spring-loaded. This is because barefoot running keeps the feet fully engaged at a higher level, which increases muscles activation and tone throughout the entire foot AND ankle. The net effect here is stronger mid-foot muscles that are better able to uphold the arch. And, barefooting also enables the arch to work more effectively as an energy-saving spring and a foot-step stabilizer. In contrast, research to date suggests little or no improvements in foot functional strength in cushioned running shoes.
Bretta Riches
BSc Neurobiology; MSc Biomechanics candidate, ultra minimalist runner & founder of RunForefoot. I was a heel striker, always injured. I was inspired by the great Tirunesh Dibaba to try forefoot running. Now, I'm injury free. This is why I launched Run Forefoot, to advocate the health & performance benefits of forefoot running and to raise awareness on the dangers of heel striking, because the world needs to know.
Latest posts by Bretta Riches (see all)
- Does Foot Strike Really Matter in Running? YES! - 17/04/2024
- Heel Lifts Increase Injury in Runners - 16/04/2024
- Are Minimalist Shoes Good for Seniors? YES! - 14/04/2024