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Lately, it seems like shoes have become optional for getting in a good workout.
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So whats barefoot training all about?
And when is it a good idea to ditch your sneakersand when is it just asking for an injury?
Here’s what they said about lifting, running, and taking classes barefoot.
Theres a reason podiatrists call shoes “foot coffins.”
Whats so bad about that?
Well, your feet are designed to function as the foundation for your entire body.
He explains that its a lot like wearing a cast on your arm.
After all, its all connected.
However, so far, the evidence is limited.
They didnt activate any extra muscle fibers when rising up out of each squat.
Go barefoot, though, and your foot is flat on the floor.
This will challenge your ankle mobilityeventually improving itbut in the meantime your squat depth might be limited.
Somerset notes that one way isnt necessarily any better than the other.
Whether youre barefoot or wearing rigid lifting shoes, that translates into better, stronger lifts.
Some people also simply find barefoot lifting more comfortable (and vice versa).
After all, in these exercises, you are rarely loading your feet with more than your bodyweight.
Still, you’re probably more likely to hurt your feet by dropping a weight plate on your toes.
If you’d like to start barefoot training, ease into it slowly.
No matter what form of barefoot training you choose, your true guide is going to be your body.
How is everything feeling and moving?
As are ankles that wobble and arches that collapse, Somerset says.
Dont be discouraged if it takes longer to adjust than you would have liked, Somerset adds.
It can be a slow process, but trust that every little bit matters.
Its just like strengthening any other body part.
Change takes time and happens incrementally.
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