Squatting barefoot, bad reputation for gym!?

Asked by: Katie Tucker

Is it OK to do squats barefoot?

Squatting barefoot can be a useful tool at times for lifters that want to play with different foot positions when squatting. Barefoot squatting can help highlight mobility limitations and be a useful tool for those rehabbing their feet and ankles as the feet will usually “feel” more engaged when squatting barefoot.

Should you squat with shoes or barefoot?

Generally, lifters and athletes will squat without shoes for two key reasons, 1) they enjoy feeling the ground to the fullest with their foot when training for stability purposes, and 2) they genuinely enjoy training barefoot and it feeds well into their squat movement mechanics.

Is it bad to do workouts barefoot?

“Wearing shoes while training is not necessary, and going barefoot can actually be beneficial to your overall form and foot strength, depending on the workout you are doing at-home,” explains Slane. Lower impact workouts, including strength training, Pilates, barre, and yoga, don’t require shoes.

Is it bad to do leg workouts barefoot?

Lifting weights barefoot is generally safe so long as you’re careful to keep your feet out of the way of weights. Ballistic exercise such as CrossFit workouts pose a greater risk.