The Benefits of Working Out Barefoot The Cheat Sheet But how much are your super supportive new running shoes really helping you ... Working out barefoot can help strengthen foot muscles, and provides ...
Can't imagine lifting with heavy shoes on. Bare feet are so much more stable. Relatedly: https://www.t-nation.com/training/truth-about-barefoot-training
I have been working out barefoot at the gym for almost a year and I believe my feet have gotten stronger. My balance has always been pretty good so I don't know if that has improved but perhaps it has.
The gyms around here don't allow anyone to be barefoot while working out. That is why I hike & bike all the time.