Army Study Goes Big, Recommends BarefootBy Dr. Michael Nirenberg, DPM Whether storming the beaches of Normandy or sweeping across the Kuwaiti border, the U.S. Army is known for making big, bold statements. Take their latest medical research as further proof. This study was huge and thorough. The study sampled over 2,500 people, all of them serious runners. The average person in the study had been a runner for eight years! Army physicians evaluated the incidence of injuries in runners who wore traditional shoes, minimalist and no shoes at all. Did barefoot runners prove to be the healthiest yet again? Score Another One for Barefoot As you might have guessed by my enthusiastic buildup, the answer is a resounding “Yes!” Runners who opted for minimalist footwear and no shoes at all fared bar better than their shod peers. It wasn’t only in the feet, either. Those who reported their preference for wearing supportive, cushioned running shoes had more injuries in the foot, ankles, lower leg area, knees and even hips! Sometimes when I read these studies, I wonder if there shouldn’t be a Public Service Announcement warning about the dangers of your thick, cozy running shoes. For more, please continue reading here: http://www.americaspodiatrist.com/2013/01/army-study-goes-big-recommends-barefoot/
Glad I'm not in anymore. I turned more ankles being forced to wear those stupid boots with heel lift and the ill fitting shoes.
Glad to see Don Goss (now promoted to Lieutenant Colonel - Hooah!) referenced as I participated in his study. As we always say, "It may not be the right way, but it's the Army Way!" Even the old Army can change, given enough time and pressure.
