Yorkshire University Research Team to Travel to Botswana to Study Barefoot Running

Yorkshire University Research Team to Travel to Botswana to Study Barefoot Running

barefoot-running7.jpgA research team from Yorkshire University traveled to Botswana last month to carry out a fourth-month study on the biomechanics of barefoot running. The study will be conducted on barefoot runners in Botswana as well as those who wear shoes. According to Dr. NassosBissas, “[u]nderstanding the biomechanics of barefoot running is essential to understanding human locomotion not only from a performance and injury prevention but also from an anthropological perspective.”

If you have any questions about barefoot running, consult with Dr. Alan Discont, D.P.M. of Family Foot and Ankle Care. Dr. Discontwill attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Barefoot Running

Barefoot running is a fairly popular trend in the running world. More than just simply ‘running without shoes,” barefoot running affects the way your feet hit the ground and your overall posture. Barefoot runners land on the front part of their feet as opposed to those who wear shoes, who usually strike their heel as they hit the ground.

Barefoot running contains many advantages, including:

  • A lower risk for ankle and foot injuries
  • Improvement in balance and body  posture
  • Strengthens muscles in the lower legs, ankles and feet that are not normally worked when wearing shoes

There are also some disadvantages to barefoot running, which include:

  • Lack of shoes increases the risk of incurring blisters, scrapes, bruises and cuts
  • Risk of Achilles tendonitis as a result of landing on the front of your feet constantly
  • Needing time and transition to adjust as the switch cannot be automatic

Start on even, flat surfaces and consider investing in minimalist running shoes. Minimalist running shoes provide the ‘feel’ of barefoot running while affording the same protection you get from wearing shoes. Barefoot running can be safe and enjoyable with the proper planning and transition.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Chandler, AZ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about barefoot running.