Fitness
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Effects of Walking Barefoot?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

While shoes are designed to help the foot imitate a natural walking motion, only walking barefoot can accomplish a truly natural motion. Walking barefoot, either around the home or in other settings, can help strengthen the foot, straighten and tone the bones and muscles of the foot, and help develop new muscles in the foot. Making a habit out of walking barefoot in the home can even help relieve stress and regulate body temperature, especially in warm conditions. By walking more naturally and improving the motion of the foot, one can improve his or her balance as well, and in some cases correct flat feet.

Walking barefoot in public can be a hazard, however, as more debris is present on sidewalks and other public areas. The foot is directly exposed to such debris, and one may become injured after stepping on something sharp. The injury is then at risk for infection, so walking barefoot in public may not be the best idea, especially for someone new to the practice who has not developed protective calluses on his or her feet. Even walking barefoot around the home poses risks, so one should be sure to walk only in areas that are relatively clean and safe if possible, and to wash his or her feet regularly.

Walking barefoot may help strengthen feet.
Walking barefoot may help strengthen feet.

The benefits of walking barefoot are significant enough that the risks may well be worth it, at least around the home. The barefoot walking motion encourages more movement among the muscles in the foot, which helps circulate more blood through the foot, ankle, and lower legs. Muscles that may not get used regularly when a shoe is worn begin to flex and become stronger, which can improve balance and body alignment. Barefoot walking can further help correct poor posture, limps, and other maladies by promoting correct walking mechanics. The body will essentially realign itself and help the legs move more naturally.

Walking barefoot may reduce pain in the feet and ankles.
Walking barefoot may reduce pain in the feet and ankles.

Barefoot walking can also help improve agility and lower stress. More muscles begin to work to steady the body during barefoot walking, meaning there are more muscles to help propel the body in different directions quickly. The mind often associates barefoot walking with relaxation, since most people are only regularly barefoot during periods of relaxation. The foot becomes more sensitive to textures, meaning that pleasant textures such as cool grass or a soft carpet can help relax the mind and soothe the body. Walking barefoot also reduces pain in the feet and ankles, meaning the body has less pain to focus on and more pleasant sensations.

Discussion Comments

golf07

I also love to go barefoot, but spend most of my time wearing shoes. I make sure my shoes are very comfortable and will usually go for comfort over fashion. The best of both worlds if being able to find both, but if you are on your feet for long periods of time that is not as easy as it sounds.

Being able to take your shoes off and relaxing at home is a good way to give your feet a break from being in shoes all day long. You should make sure you have good support in your shoes, but I don't see anything wrong with going barefoot any chance you get.

julies

The first thing I do when I come in the door is take off my shoes. I don't like wearing shoes and love being able to walk barefoot in my home. When I was a kid I remember going barefoot most of the summer - even outside. I couldn't to that anymore, but never wear shoes when I am in the house.

I have read there are some advantages to barefoot running and even some shoes that are made to feel similar to that. They might be good on the beach, but I would worry about rocks and other pebbles than can really hurt your feet if you land on them a certain way.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Walking barefoot may help strengthen feet.
      By: Emmanuelle Guillou
      Walking barefoot may help strengthen feet.
    • Walking barefoot may reduce pain in the feet and ankles.
      By: Mercedes Fittipaldi
      Walking barefoot may reduce pain in the feet and ankles.
    • Walking barefoot in public can be hazardous.
      By: Jürgen Fälchle
      Walking barefoot in public can be hazardous.
    • A person who walks barefoot should be sure to wash his or her feet regularly.
      By: Monika Wisniewska
      A person who walks barefoot should be sure to wash his or her feet regularly.
    • Walking barefoot may expose the foot to injuries that will require medical attention.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      Walking barefoot may expose the foot to injuries that will require medical attention.