Is Running Barefoot Bad?

Is Running Barefoot Bad?

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Everyone must try running barefoot at least once. However there a few simple things to remember before hitting the beach for a nice jog on a hot summer day!

1. Type in the words "barefoot running" into your favorite search engine.

2. Look through the nearly half a million listings.

3. Try to figure out whether barefoot running in good or bad.

Barefoot running has been gaining in popularity, due in large part to the success of the book Born to Run by Christopher McDougall which was published in 2009. Mr. McDougall proposes that since humans evolved without shoes, the key to proper foot health is taking away the overly supportive and restrictive shoes that we wear and reverting to barefoot running. With the renewed interest in barefoot running, podiatrists are being placed front and center in the discussion about proper shoes and running mechanics. There is very limited research to support barefoot running as either a healthier or more effective alternative to shod running. If you are interested in running barefoot, follow these simple tips to ensure you are safe and free from injuries:

1. Start slow! Begin running slow without shoes overtime increase your distance. This will allow your feet time to adapt to the lack of cushioning that shoes provide. Barefoot running advocates have said that it may take up to a year of gradually increasing your running amount to return to the same level you were at in shoes.

2. Listen to your body. While running barefoot if you experience pain be sure to slow down or stop. If you have pains that don't go away with rest, see a podiatrist. There may be an increase in the potential for stress fractures, especially if you increase your mileage barefoot too fast. Running barefoot may help in a variety of ways and increase your current athletic abilities.

3. Ensure that the location you are running is safe and free from danger. Watch while running barefoot as there could be a potential for glass, rocks or metal objects. Begin running on a safe surface, such as a track, that is free of such objects. Several shoe companies also make "minimalist" shoes that mimic barefoot running mechanics while also providing a layer of protection.

In addition to these tips, please visit with one of our trained professionals if you have any questions or concerns about barefoot running or any other foot health questions. Doctors specialize in treating running and other sports-related injuries of the foot and ankle.


About the Author:
http://www.stopheelpainfast.com



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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