Run Barefoot PA

Why should I run barefoot? Is it good for me? Or could it be bad? What is wrong with running shoes?

If you've ever tried running barefoot you may have noticed the way your stride changes so that you are landing on the mid to forefoot area to reduce strain on your back, knees and feet. The benefit of training barefoot is that it forces you to develop a natural stride. The downside to many modern day running shoes is that they are marketed to give the runner a heel-to-toe stride. Running with a "heel first" strike increases stress in the lower extremities and into the spine.

Often modern running shoes are said to be corrective of injuries that come with running, with a thicker cushioned heel area and arch support. Running is not the cause of injuries. It's running with an unnatural form that causes injuries. Arch support only weakens your foot. Your foot's arch is a perfect design already it doesn't need support. When was the last time you went through an arched tunnel that needed support columns in the middle?

Running barefoot teaches you how to be light on your feet. It reduces the impact on your ankles, shins, knees, hips and back, creating a smoother transition to the next cycle as your back leg comes through and prepares to hit the ground. Instead of pounding the ground and springing forward, the natural runner glides over the terrain.

Before beginning barefoot or minimalist footwear running it is good to consider some safety aspects. If you are new to running or even if you already run heel-to-toe but are learning to have a more natural stride you should consider your feet and legs are full of muscles and tendons that may not be used to barefoot running. You should always take it slow and easy to begin as it is still possible to injure yourself if your feet are not properly trained. Be sure to stretch as needed and ice any soreness following a run.

Going totally barefoot means you will have to limit your running terrain to grass, non rocky dirt or sand. I have run barefoot for short distances on smooth asphalt and concrete but I do not recommend it. Stepping on glass, pebbles and rocks can be painful so it is important to adopt a good mental map of the terrain ahead of you. Keep your eyes down and scan the running surface for anything you would not want to step on and adjust. Sometimes running barefoot means you have no rhythm and are more so hopping from spot to spot. This will give you even more of a workout and heighten your senses. If you want the feel of running barefoot but with a layer of protection check out the footwear page.

There is a certain joy to be had in running totally barefoot. It is almost indescribable but the human foot is full of nerves which make it very sensitive to the texture of the terrain so that every little bump, crack and nook is felt. All this sensory information about the ground can be a rush in its own sense. From personal experience I always feel the freest when I am totally barefoot. I think it is therapeutic to remove any barriers between us and the Earth, even if it is for just a stroll through the park.