Biomechanics and Injury Prevention for Barefoot/Minimalist Running

Biomechanical studies indicate that barefoot/minimalist running coincides with a transition to an anterior foot strike, lower vertical loading rates, higher cadences, less energy absorption at the knee joint, and higher energy absorption at the ankle joint.The clinical outcome studies indicate improvement of previous injuries and equivocal injury rates in the barefoot/minimal-style running groups.Foot strike pattern is more important than footwear regarding injury prevention and vertical loading rate.Minimalist footwear places higher degrees of stress on the ankle joints and an increased injury rate when abruptly transitioning to barefoot running. Runners must weigh the risks and benefits and take caution to properly strengthen their feet and safely transition to minimalist running.

Automated summary

Biomechanical studies suggest that barefoot/minimalist running is associated with a change in foot strike pattern, lower vertical loading rates, increased cadence, reduced knee joint energy absorption, and increased ankle joint energy absorption. Clinical outcome studies indicate improvement in prior injuries and inconclusive injury rates in barefoot/minimal-style running groups. Foot strike pattern is more significant than footwear in injury prevention and vertical loading rate control. Minimalist footwear places greater stress on the ankle joints and leads to increased injury rates during a sudden transition to barefoot running. Runners should carefully consider the risks and benefits, and focus on properly strengthening their feet and safely transitioning to minimalist running.