The Barefoot Runners Society declared May 1st as the International Barefoot Running Day. That in short shows the rapid growth and popularity of barefoot running across the globe. For a long time toning shoes have been manufactured to simulate the experience of going barefoot. Then why not do the actual thing? Since the human feet have evolved into what they are after thousands of years of evolution, their design is best suited for our walking and running needs. Thus, the idea of going barefoot or wearing minimalist shoes has been considered by many.
What is so hot about this new trend?
Today, everyone seems to be singing praises of running barefoot. Scientists and biologists are finding anatomical reasons to prove why it is healthy. Doctors have medical reasons to vouch for it and professors are conducting ‘path-breaking’ research into this and publishing positive findings in journals of high repute like Nature. Adding to the success of the trend is the release of a variety of minimalist shoes that dare you to look different and feel different.
How is this a perfect health tool:
There are numerous benefits that one accrues from running barefoot. They are listed below.
- This style of running lays emphasis on the forefoot and the midfoot. Thus, the natural arch of the foot takes the force and allows for a smooth and fluid running. This is also the correct way of running and the current style of heel-strike developed only as a result of the excessive padding provided by shoes.
- The removal of the heel-lift ensures that the Achilles tendon and the calf muscles are lengthened and strengthened. This means that one has reduced chances of suffering from tendinitis and calf-pulls.
- The muscles, tendons and ligaments of the feet get strengthened and one develops a natural gait while walking and running.
- Proprioception improves along with the overall balance of the body because the nerve endings and sensory receptors in the muscles of the feet are in better contact with the ground.
- Latest research has indicated that electrically ‘grounding’ oneself provides many health benefits. This ‘grounding’ happens when one runs barefoot.
- Since the body balance is better and slipping reduces when one is barefoot, the risk of injury due to falling is also reduced.
What to wear:
Running barefoot has its own disadvantages too. For starters, your feet are exposed to the dangers of nails, thorns and other debris which can cause cuts and injuries. Since the skin in not used to this kind of treatment, very often blisters will erupt on the soles. You may experience severe pain in your feet during extremely cold or extremely hot climates. Thus, barefoot running shoes or minimal running shoes have grown in popularity.
Notable among all such shoes is the Barefoot 5 or the Vibram five fingers. This shoe fits like a glove over your feet. Thus, it provides protection while maintaining the barefoot feel. Developed from the highest quality gripping and durable material, it can be called a second skin which is much thicker and protective! They provide extra traction along with a slight cushioning effect for the feet.
Who can do this:
Running and walking barefoot can be done by almost everyone. Well, if you happen to live in extreme climates, it would not be advisable. At the same time if you are suffering from skin problems and have a sensitive skin, it would be good to avoid barefoot running. But everyone can make use of the minimalist shoes . It will help both youngsters and the elderly to stay healthy and increase their longevity. However, please note that since most of us have been trained to make use of padding on our soles, it may not be easy to make that shift.
How to get started:
The secret is to start early and move slowly. The younger you are, the more you will benefit from barefoot running. But do not attempt to shift suddenly to an all-barefoot regimen. Start with small distances at first – about 10 percent of your daily movement maybe. Always consult your doctor, chiropractor and others who have been practicing barefoot running, when you get started. If you experience any pain or problem stop and consult again. Gradually increase the ‘barefoot time’ till you reach a point where being barefoot becomes a way of life.
