Some people may be afraid to run barefoot for fear of getting hurt or injured. This is not completely wrong. However, on the other hand, running barefoot also has various benefits.
Running is one of the most popular sports. Whether it's running barefoot or wearing shoes, both have health benefits. However, the most important thing to pay attention to is your safety while running.
Potential Benefits of Running Barefoot
Here are some of the benefits of running barefoot that you can feel:
1. Otot stronger
Some health experts believe that running barefoot can strengthen the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the feet without being limited by the pressure from shoes. Not only that, running barefoot also makes it easier for you to spread your fingers instead of wearing shoes.
2. Tisleep better
For those of you who have sleep disorders, such as insomnia, you can try running barefoot. Running barefoot on the grass can lower the hormone cortisol (stress hormone), so you can sleep soundly and wake up in the morning more energetic.
3. Better body balance
Without shoes, the small muscles in the foot area, will work more actively. This helps improve body balance by increasing the ability to sense muscle movement (proprioception), which is beneficial for maximizing your body's ability to move.
4. Healthier heart
Running barefoot when done with the right technique is known to significantly reduce the occurrence of red blood cell clumping, so this plays a role in maintaining heart health.
Considering the Risk Running Barefoot
Apart from the various benefits, you also need to consider the risks of running barefoot. Below are some of the risks that may arise from being barefoot:
1. Injury
Running barefoot can cause your muscles to work too hard, which can lead to calf cramps or muscle cramps Achilles tendinitis.
2. Exposure to germs or bacteria
Running barefoot outdoors can increase the risk of your feet being exposed to germs or bacteria. This can then lead to infection.
3. Woundsconsequence ground surface conditions
Running barefoot can also make you vulnerable to sharp objects, such as nails or broken glass, which can cause infections, such as tetanus.
4. Painin sole
Generally the soles of the feet have a soft texture. Running barefoot can cause pain in the soles of the feet. In some people, this can even trigger the condition plantar fasciitis.
5. Lblisters, blisters, and calluses
Those of you who run barefoot are likely to experience blisters, blisters, and calluses. Generally this happens in the first few weeks of activity without shoes.
For diabetics who may have peripheral neuropathy conditions or impaired nerve sensitivity, you should avoid this because they may not realize if the foot has an injury.
Watch This Before Running Barefoot
To reduce the risk and get the optimal benefits of running barefoot, there are several things you need to pay attention to, including:
- Get used to running barefoot indoors first
- Choose a ground level on grass or a flat place
- Make sure the ground is free of dirt, glass, or small stones that might hurt your feet
- Try running barefoot outdoors gradually, starting with a 9-minute walk and 1-minute run. After getting used to it, slowly increase the duration
Running barefoot does have a variety of benefits. However, that does not mean you have to take off your shoes when you want to run. Keep in mind the risks and if necessary, consult a doctor first, so you know whether running barefoot is safe for your condition.
