Can Unshod Running Reduce Running Injuries?
Abstract
Can running unshod reduce running injuries? In this thesis, unshod is defined as barefoot or wearing a minimalist running shoe. Running barefoot or while wearing Vibram Five Fingers (VFF) are examples of running unshod. Within the last year, the Army Times published several articles regarding unshod running. One debated topic is whether or not unshod running is beneficial. More and more runners are leaving their traditional running shoes behind and stepping out either barefoot or with a minimalist shoe, and yet there is no definitive answer on the benefits of unshod running. The Army has officially banned service members from wearing popular minimalist shoes like Vibram Five Fingers. Other services also have made decisions regarding the wearing of VFFs. The Marine Corps and the Air Force have approved the wearing of minimalist shoes during physical training, and the Navy just approved the wearing of minimalist shoes during the writing of this thesis. Outside of the military, the running community also is divided. Opinions have sparked articles, books, and entire web sites for and against unshod running. Shoe manufacturers recognize the debate but have not taken sides. Instead, shoe makers have started producing and marketing minimalist shoes to get into this new market, while continuing to produce traditional shoes. With all of this debate, why would people and soldiers run unshod? The primary research question of this thesis is as follows: Can unshod running prevent or minimize running injuries?
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 08, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA563172
Entities
People
- Brian P. Hallam
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College