Why ALL Runners Should Run in the FiveFinger Shoes

20/04/2015 Bretta Riches Why You Should Run Barefoot 646

Recent studies have reviewed the pros and cons of running in the FiveFinger shoes and concluded that runners have better rates of success in form improvements with the FiveFingers than running barefoot. This suggests that runners new to forefoot running may benefit biomechanically more with the FiveFingers.

Why ALL Runners Should Run in the FiveFinger Shoes

Squardrone et al. (2009) found that the Vibram Five Fingers improved perception of ankle range of motion during both standing and running compared to running barefoot. Other reports found that the Vibram Five Fingers facilitated better ankle plantarflexion compared to barefoot running [2], suggesting that runners in the Five Fingers are just as able to avoid heel striking as barefoot runners.

(If you are unsure on the definition of ankle plantarflexion, learn about it here)

These findings however, were met with skepticism, even outright disbelief, by habitual barefoot runners, simply because proprioceptive input, which can only be optimized when barefoot, is more extensive and more productive for refining biomechanics –proprioception also enhances perception of impact. Yet, the current study suggests that it is okay if proprioception is minimally blocked with a barefoot style minimalist shoe like the Vibram Five Fingers.

Running in FiveFinger Shoes
If you hate the thought of running barefoot, that’s okay because the Vibram Five Fingers amazingly mimic barefoot conditions, you  just need to be more mindful of your forefoot strike landings.

The Take Home Message

Remember, more cushioning you wear under your foot increases your risk of heel striking during running. Therefore, you need to run in a running shoe that encourages better biomechanics and such shoes are those that closely approximate running barefoot.

Discover why cushioned running shoes are troublesome for runners.

More From Run Forefoot:

Stay Minimal – If you are a midfoot striker, find out the shoes you need to wear.

The Achilles’ Job – Find out how the Achilles tendon creates a safer landing environment for forefoot runners.

Stride Safely – Understand how a longer stride may lose your ability to be an efficient runner.

Run Barefoot a Little More – Learn how running barefoot weeds out bad form habits for when you run in shoes.

References:

[1]. Squadrone R, Gallozzi C. Biomechanical and physiological comparison of barefoot and two shod conditions in experienced barefoot runners. J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2009; 49 (1): 6-13.

[2]. Squadrone R, Gallozzi C. Effect of a five-toed minimal protection shoe on static and dynamic ankle position sense. J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2011; 51 (3): 401-408.

P.S. Don't forget to check out the Run Forefoot Facebook Page, it's a terrific place to ask questions about forefoot running, barefoot running and injury. I'm always happy to help!

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