Minimalist involves running in light, flexible footwear with no cushion or a raised heel, to allow the foot to move naturally, restore strength and proprioception, and to improve foot strike.

Minimalist Running Shoes May Increase the Efficiency of the Feet in Absorbing Impact
Minimalist running shoes may help prevent injury by encouraging mechanical engagements, such as increased arch mobility and compression, which may increase the efficiency of the feet in holding your stride mechanics more stable and may also prevent increases in impacts from spreading out onto the rest of the leg.