Advantages of Barefoot Running

Lieberman’s 2010 study on barefoot running is seen as a major impetus for the popularity of barefoot running.

In this study, Foot Strike Patterns & Collision Forces in Habitually Barefoot Versus Shod Runners, Lieberman et al. studied how the feet of barefoot and shod runners hit the ground. The force of impact was also measured and compared. The study showed that habitually barefoot runners usually land closer to the ball of the foot (forefoot) or in the middle of the foot (midfoot). This landing causes a gentler impact on the ground. The shoe-wearing runner usually lands on the heel, most likely due to the elevated, cushioned heels found in running shoes. This type of landing causes a harder impact on the ground. The study was seen as a reason to try barefoot running—the logic was that by reducing ground impact, you can reduce impact-related running injuries.

There are other differences between barefoot running and shoe running. The forefoot/midfoot landing pattern of barefoot runners shortens the length of their stride, increasing the number of strides needed to run a given distance. This leads to decreased ground contact time, decreased flight time, and less movement of an individual’s center of mass. In addition, studies show that the barefoot/minimalist runner has a lower heart rate and consumes less oxygen than a shoe runner. All these results can be seen as evidence that barefoot running is a more economical and potentially safer way to run.

Source: footvitals

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