To develop sturdy muscle tissue, dense bones, and wholesome nerves, our ft should be labored identical to different physique components. That’s why some podiatrists suggest spending as a lot time as potential barefoot — or in minimalist footwear that protects the pores and skin and permits the foot its full vary of movement.
“Tissue must really feel load with the intention to adapt,” explains biomechanist Katy Bowman, MS, writer of Rethink Your Place. “When you’ve cushioned and immobilized your ft with inflexible sneakers, they now not really feel load. So, you’re placing the weakest a part of you beneath your total physique weight.”
Nonetheless, don’t simply chuck your Chucks and head out for a barefoot dash. “There’s loads of transitional work wanted should you’ve been sporting sneakers for many years,” she cautions. “Workout routines and consciousness might help you transition efficiently.”
(For extra on barefoot coaching, see “Naked Your Sole: Barefoot Coaching.”)
Because the literal basis of our our bodies, our ft are essential to holding us energetic and wholesome. See “What Your Ft Are Attempting to Inform You,” from which this text was excerpted, for six frequent foot points and steps to relieving them.