Natural Running – less injuries or not?
3 min read
Asked by: Matt Hansen
CONCLUSIONS: Barefoot running is associated with fewer overall musculoskeletal injuries/runner, but similar injury rates.
Do runners rarely sustain injuries?
Only 32 percent of long-distance runners face running injuries annually, while 27 percent of novice runners incur injuries. However, novice runners are twice as likely to sustain an injury than those who run recreationally.
Does barefoot running reduce injury?
Based on a review of current literature, barefoot running is not a substantiated preventative running measure to reduce injury rates in runners. However, barefoot running utility should be assessed on an athlete-specific basis to determine whether barefoot running will be beneficial.
How can I get less injuries when running?
Some tips to help prevent injuries include:
- Warm up before running. …
- Cool down after running. …
- Drink plenty of water before, during and after your run.
- Don’t push too hard beyond your current level of fitness. …
- Start slowly at a pace at which you can have a conversation without breathlessness.
Is running barefoot better?
Barefoot running reduces the risk of plantar fasciitis
As previously noted, running with naked feet often leads to better technique and cadence. Sloppy running form can strain your plantar fascia.
Should you run on balls of feet?
Landing on the balls of the feet is considered effective. But landing on the toes may cause injury if you’re a distance runner. Although it’s effective for sprinting and short bursts of speed, landing too far forward on your toes isn’t recommended for longer distances. It could lead to shin splints or other injuries.
Do minimalist shoes prevent injury?
Biomechanical studies have suggested that these features of barefoot-style running may lead to a reduction in injury rates. After conducting more outcomes-based research, minimalist footwear and gait retraining may serve as new methods to reduce injuries within the running population.
Do marathon runners run barefoot?
A solid example of a barefoot runner these days is Ken Saxton, 51, a computer technician from Long Beach, California. Saxton finished 14 marathons barefoot in 2006, and has now completed a total of 56 marathons barefoot, including major races such as Los Angeles and Boston.
Do feet get bigger when you run?
There’s a grain of truth to that—increased blood flow and swelling during and after exercise do make your feet expand, so your running shoes tend to be larger.
Is it OK to run barefoot on treadmill?
To safely run barefoot on a treadmill, you likely will need to make adjustments to your running style and to the treadmill’s settings. Running barefoot on a treadmill should not cause pain; if you experience discomfort, discontinue use until you follow up with your doctor.
Is it better to run on a treadmill with or without shoes?
Should you wear minimal, maximal or traditional shoes? If you thought about running on the treadmill barefoot or in socks, don’t. It is an accident waiting to happen. Running barefoot may lead to burning on the soles of your feet from the friction of the belt.
Does barefoot running build calves?
When you wear shoes, those muscles don’t get used. Running barefoot builds strength in your feet, ankles, and calves.
