Running barefoot has become quite a trend among runners nowadays. You will see athletes running on beach tracks in the early morning not just to feel the cool breeze but due to the benefits it offers.
Studies say that running barefoot can bring a 4% increase in efficiency and reduce the chances of encountering injuries. In other words, running barefoot can actually be more beneficial than running in shoes.
However, the track needs to be smooth and soft. Hence, the beach sand can be a perfect place to start with.
So, let’s find out how running barefoot is actually good for you:
1. Better Foot Biomechanics
Fitness experts claim that running in shoes restricts the full capabilities of a runner. The sole and rubber inserts that are found inside a shoe are said to prevent the natural arches, ligaments and tendons to perform to the fullest. Therefore, a runner is more prone to injuries, foot pain and gets exhausted soon.
On the other hand, running barefoot supports better foot biomechanics. All the muscles, tendons and ligaments are put into action unlike when running in shoes. Therefore, a runner who runs barefoot experiences less injuries and pain.
Note: For die hard shoe-running lovers, they can solve this problem by turning to orthotics and wearing ergonomic shoes.
2. Provides A Natural Running Stride
Runners who prefer running with shoes on become habitual of landing on the heel rather than on the midsole and front foot. The excessive use of heel can be the reason for a slower pace because it causes a break in the haul or brings a sudden pause.
On the other hand, if you run barefoot, you will be able to land on your midsole which promotes a lighter, smoother and natural stride. In other words, you’ll be flowing with the pace.
Moreover, landing on the front foot is also beneficial since it allows the arches to absorb shocks and doesn’t pull you back in pace.
This is how running barefoot is more preferable than running in shoes.
3. Better Coordination And Balance
Another benefit of running barefoot is that the smaller muscles in the feet get good movements. There are smaller muscles in our legs, hips, feet and thighs that are responsible for providing use support, balance and coordination.
Hence, the chances of falling off or slipping are reduced in this case.
On the other hand, running in shoes can restrict these muscles and disrupt the balance.
Precautions To Take When Running Barefoot
Running barefoot can cause a shock to your feet or even worse, give you blisters or plantar fasciitis. This can be due to the extremely hard surface that you are running on or because of the road debris such as stone, glass, etc.
How To Overcome This: Start by running barefoot on a rubberized track such as a treadmill. Do this for at least a week. This will strengthen your feet and make you ready to hit the road.
Start slow and run for 15 minutes every day without shoes on. Gradually, increase the timing and keep looking for blisters. If you still feel that your feet aren’t hard enough, switch to a soft track such as the one found on a beach. It requires more pressure and power to run on wet sand. Hence, running on such a track will get your feet hard for sure.
Conclusion
Running barefoot has its perks but it can feel a bit tough initially. Remember to take it slow and keep it consistent for best results.
