The barefoot running debate has been reignited following an article published January this year by Harvard Biologist, Dr Daniel Lieberman.
The study investigated foot strike patterns of barefoot runners and compared to shod runners. It showed that experienced barefoot runners who land towards the front of their foot do not generate as much impact that occurs with landing on the heel.
So, should more runners be running barefoot?
The media misinterpreted and sensationalised the above study, which made the headlines that running shoes were bad and bare feet were better. Some members of the barefoot running community used it as proof that running shoes were actually harmful.
Dr Lieberman subsequently released a statement following the media reports, stating that there was ‘no conclusive scientific evidence that shows barefoot running or running shoes either cause or prevent injuries’.
More recently a study conducted in the UK demonstrated there is no correlation between arch height and muscle strength. This dispels the myth that barefoot running ‘improves the arches as the muscles strengthen’.
What runners must remember is that before they ditch their shoes, they need to consider that roads and trails are littered with small rocks, sticks and broken glass.
Cuts, abrasions and infections of the feet can leave you sidelined for weeks. Also if biomechanics aren’t sound e.g. if the foot rolls inwards or outwards excessively, then this can ultimately lead to injury.
Unfortunately, only a very small percent of the population are biomechanically blessed. In fact there are a significant number of people that are running injury free who may have not otherwise, because they are in a supportive shoe.
There is nothing wrong with runners who incorporate barefoot running as part of their training. However, it should be done sensibly on a safe surface e.g. grass, and gradually until the feet and legs adapt.
So, don’t throw out your running shoes just yet – the benefits of wearing shoes outweigh the risks of going barefoot.
SOURCE: Ben Sweeting, Podiatrist, Performance Podiatry & Physiotherapy