Workshop By Emily Splichal
Dr Emily Splichal, Podiatrist, Human Movement Specialist and a barefoot training specialist, is conducting a workshop on barefoot training in Bangalore on the 4th of September from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. I am eager to listen to her. On the flipside, I have been a great admirer of barefoot training since 5 years or more. I am an avid fan of the Vibram five fingers which simulate barefoot. However, Dr Emily has researched extensively and explains, for example, that even wearing socks can cause injury—stress fractures in the foot and long bones of our feet and legs. She explains this concept in her book titled Barefoot Strong.
On a similar note, you may ask me why barefoot training? The answer lies in thousands of plantar receptors which are activated when you train barefoot. Wearing Shoes block them and that can affect adversely. For the same reason, I ask my gym clients to train barefoot while squatting and deadlifting. It leads to better balance and absorbing vibration better from the ground.
PS: Any further information on why you should train barefoot is provided in the book Barefoot Strong, or you can join me on the 4th of September.