Brendan Mitchell is an avid runner of marathons who  was surprisingly given permission to run barefoot in the Noosas Ultimate Sports Fest 10km event. In the book, “The Shoe Conspiracy” that Mitchell has recently written, the runner conducts several tests and theories to see of shoes are necessary for your feet when running.

Film Students from the Queensland University of Technology have teamed up with Mitchell to put this theory to the test. “I just want people to sort of realise we can’t take everything at face value because a shoe salesman says you need a $500 pair of shoes, said 19-year-old Mitchell.” After running the event, Mitchell said his feet felt okay and was not complaining of any injuries.

Allowing your body time to adjust properly to barefoot running is essential, and part of this preventative care involves talking to a podiatrist like Dr. Nicholas Crismali of Crismali Foot & Ankle. Dr. Crismali can advise you on a running regimen, as well as provide information on techniques of barefoot running to help avoid foot pain, heel pain, and injury.

Barefoot Running

The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.

The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.

The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.

If you have any questions, please contact our offices in Hesperia, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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