You have been using shoes for so long that the thought of walking barefoot, even just inside your own home, most likely does not come into mind. But, did you know that there are several health benefits to this practise? So much so that some people who choose to go barefoot even get to avoid plantar fasciitis treatment because the muscles in their feet are stronger compared to others.
What are the benefits?
According to health experts, walking or running barefoot will enable you to move as nature intends you to move: without cushions for your feet. Being barefoot, then, forces you to adjust the way you move. Because of this, there are several muscle groups that are also being developed that you will not normally get to use if you wear shoes all the time.
By being barefoot, you can strengthen your leg muscles, too, and this will add more support to your back. You can improve the way you bring down your feet, leading to better balancing, better hip and core movement, and stronger muscles in the feet.
If that is still not enough, wearing shoes all the time can actually cause pain and stress on the feet, which is why a lot of people develop bunions, hammertoes, and other deformities. These people also complain about shooting pain on their soles, ankles, and lower leg muscles because of their shoes.
What is the right way to do it?
If you are convinced that going barefoot will be better for you, there are a few guidelines that you should follow to make your experience enjoyable and safe. Despite the fact that going barefoot is beneficial to anyone, there are also certain risks to this habit.
For one, you can never be too sure that the field you are walking on does not have sharp objects lying around that could pierce your sole. So, always be careful when you are going to run barefoot. Also, do not let these potential dangers rob you of the opportunity to enjoy exercising while barefoot.
What you can do first is to start walking around your house barefoot. Start in your living room and work your way out of the house and into your yard. Try to get a feel of the concrete, grass, and soil on your feet, and see if you can adapt to each surface. Once you have acclimatised to your yard, walk in front of your house.
Let your feet adapt to the coarseness of the pavement outside your home, but do not go too far yet. The sole of your feet is quite soft compared to people who have been walking barefoot their entire lives, so take it easy and just walk to and from in front of your house.
When you are ready to walk around your block, be sure to bring a small first aid kit with you at all times. You can never be too sure if the surface you will walk on will not be free from any objects that can injure you, so take precautionary measures.
Walking or running barefoot can be extremely beneficial to you. As long as you take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety, you can make the most out of exercising while barefoot.
