[On running barefoot – some opinions below.]
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This is a reasonable article on the topic for runners.
http://www.sportsscientists.com/2010...-q-part-2.html
[If you read this, note the overall statements made.]
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“Our ancestors invented shoes for a reason: to protect their feet from hostile environments as they migrated from regions of soft loam to more foreboding terrain.
Whether or not barefoot running is better for humans has yet to be determined scientifically.
What advice can we share with our patients?
While running barefoot is most certainly what our ancestors did and our aboriginal cousins still do, we currently lack the knowledge to say irrefutably that it is more healthful than running with shoes. Since science has yet to decide this topic, I do not feel comfortable offering advice for or against running barefoot.”
- William Morgan, DC – AMA [American Chiropractic Association]
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[This is their current position:]
APMA Position Statement on Barefoot Running
[American Pediatric Medical Association]
Barefoot running is a possible alternative or training adjunct to running with shoes. While anecdotal evidence and testimonials proliferate on the Internet and in the media about the possible health benefits of barefoot running, research has not yet adequately shed light on the immediate and long term effects of this practice.
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Orthopedic Surgeon, Andrew Gerken, MD, comments and answers questions regarding the new craze of barefoot running.
ARE BAREFOOT RUNNING SHOES BETTER FOR YOUR FEET?
Dr. Gerken: That probably depends on what type of runner you are: old and slow vs. young and fast; running long or short; overweight or slender. If one has run for years in a consistent pattern and has been injury free, then I would not recommend changing shoes. I do not think there is evidence the barefoot running shoes are better for the feet as far as reported injuries go. They may be better further up, i.e. knees, hips and back.
SOME OF THE WEBSITES SELLING BAREFOOT RUNNING SHOES CLAIM THAT THESE SHOES RELIEVE AND/OR PREVENT ORTHOPEDIC INJURIES. WHAT IS YOUR VIEW WITH REGARD TO THIS CLAIM?
Dr. Gerken: In some individuals, barefoot running shoes may be a better alternative. Remember, many people have had injury free running careers, and so for these people, “regular” running shoes should be continued and they will do just fine. “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it.” I have seen more injuries recently in runners who have changed to barefoot shoes. I do not think there is enough data to suggest that all people are better off with barefoot running shoes, or how to decide what shoe a particular runner should wear.
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[My words below.]
According to you ScottP, no one above has a clue.
There are NO studies over long distant formidable terrains such at the A.T. to justify barefoot hiking / running. What you want to do and believe is your decision.
I have not found any scientific body (or institution / organization) that supports any unusual lengthy activity on the magnitude of an A.T. thru-hike without shoes or even minimalistic shoes as being a preferred method for any reason.
Aspen Glow – A number of articles I read (many not listed here) suggested if you are injury free, you may be better off not changing now?? No matter your choice, I hope your hike is successful for you.