Top 8 Reasons to Run Barefoot; Your Running Shoes Are Killing You
Could it be? Those expensive running shoes you’ve been wearing all these years are actually increasing your chances of injury?
Several recent studies, including a thorough examination by Michael Warburton in the sports research journal Sportscience, support a growing sentiment that highly cushioned sneakers can actually increase the odds of ankle, knee and hip injuries while running.
It’s no coincidence that barefoot running is gaining popularity. Several sneaker companies are developing shoes to mimic the barefoot experience (still, these products come in near the $100-mark). So should you toss out the shoes all together?
Barefoot ultra-runner Tellman Knudson, who is in the midst of training for his 3,200-mile cross country journey to raise money for charity, says, “yes!” He suggests starting out gradually and increasing mileage as your feet become accustomed to being naked.
Here are the top eight reasons Knudson says you should be running barefoot:
1.) It’s what we’re designed for.
Before shoes came along, our ancestors trod the land barefoot for thousands of years. The human foot is made for shoeless running. It is only in the last 40 years or so that thick-soled sneakers have become common.
2.) Your body takes less shock.
With cushioned shoes, runners tend to take longer strides and strike the ground heel-first. This jars the leg’s joints and creates stress. Barefoot runners, on the other hand, tend to strike mid-foot first, allowing the muscles and tendons in the foot to act like a spring and absorb the shock.
3.)Save money.
A new pair of Nike Air Max running shoes run upwards of $150. Save yourself some money and run barefoot.
4.)Save weight.
While most running shoes don’t weigh more than a pound, that weight is exacerbated by the fact that it exists at the end of two long, swinging pendulums: your legs. Run barefoot and notice a considerable difference.
5.) Run faster.
By ditching your shoes and allowing the muscles and tendons in your feet to strengthen, you’ll increase efficiency and speed.
6.)At races, everyone moves out of your way.
Either because they think you’re crazy or because they respect the “Shoeless One”, people will make room for you at otherwise crowded races. After all, no one wants to be the one who stepped on your toes.
7.)Dramatically increases awareness of your surroundings.
Barefoot running enhances the experience. You’re more aware of your surroundings and you notice everything from slight breezes to far-off bird chirps.
8.)More Sex.
If you’re single and you’re at a race, it’s way easier to get people’s attention if you’re not wearing any shoes.
It doesn’t end there. Head to the runner’s resource website founded by Knudson, http://www.startrunning.com and unearth all the reasons you should be running barefoot.