4. Barefoot Workout
Intrigued by barefoot running, but not ready to step on the sidewalk without shoes? Try a barefoot workout in the safety of your local gym. Using familiar exercises—such as squats, dead lifts and kettlebell swings—barefoot workouts can improve your sense of balance, as well as strengthen the muscles in the legs and feet. Some podiatrists even recommend barefoot exercise to combat flat feet. If you are new to barefoot training, “start walking around barefoot at home and introduce foot mobilization exercises,” NYC-based podiatrist Emily Splichal, DPM, MS, CPT, told BuiltLean. After that, work slowly into eccentric exercise such as “reverse heel raises, walking backward on a treadmill and jumping rope—all barefoot.”
