Walking barefoot can offer surprising health benefits.
Walking without shoes can strengthen the muscles of the feet and legs and improve balance and posture.
However, forgoing shoes may not be right for people with certain health conditions.
triocean / Getty Images
triocean / Getty Images
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In adults, walking barefoot may help restore a natural walking pattern.
Wearing heavily cushioned shoes can alter the way the foot lands on the ground when walking.
Walking without shoes also causes you to walk in a lighter manner, with less impact per step.
Strengthens Foot and Leg Muscles
Taking off your shoes andwalkingcan help strengthen themuscles of the feet and legs.
People who run without shoes have larger leg and foot muscles.
In young children, forgoing shoes can benefit their foot development.
Boosts Balance and Posture
Walking barefoot can improve balance.
Older people who are more prone to falls may be more stable on their feet without shoes.
Training without shoes could help strengthen the muscles that help with balance, thus preventing more falls.
Posture and balance originate from the foot, which includes multiple bones, joints, and ligaments.
When these are functioning properly, posture improves.
People who walk barefoot or wear minimalist shoes, like barefoot running shoes, mayimprove their posture.
Reduces Stress
Stepping outside and exploring nature while barefoot can help reduce stress.
Helps Certain Mental Health Conditions
Spending time in nature can have a positive effect on mental health.
Walking barefoot is a way to reconnect to nature.
People who spent time in nature experienced less anxiety and fewer symptoms of depression.
Adolescents who walked barefoot regularly also had improved cognition and a decrease in stress.
When and Where to Walk Barefoot
New to barefoot walking?
The muscles of your feet and legs may not be used to walking without shoes for extended periods.
Walk for short periods while you adjust.
Choose a safe surface.
You want to see to it that you wont injure yourself without shoes.
If you have a yard or a small garden, step outside with bare feet soon after waking.
If theres a beach nearby, walk on the sand.
What Are the Risks?
Although walking barefoot can improve balance, older people at risk of falls should take caution while walking barefoot.
Slippery or uneven surfaces can increase the risk of falling.
Walking with minimalist footwear, such as barefoot running shoes, may help you transition to walking barefoot.
People withplantar fasciitismay find that walking barefoot aggravates their condition.
However, some evidence suggests that slowly easing into a barefoot walking/running routine can improve plantar fasciitis.
If you are new to barefoot walking, begin slowly.
The risks of barefoot walking include small cuts and scrapes, conditions like athletes foot, and joint/bone injuries.
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