Comparative Analysis of Barefoot and Shod Running

Abstract

This study investigated the biomechanical difference between running barefoot and shod before and after a barefoot training program (BTP). Foot angles at contact (FA), contact time (CT), stride length (SL), initial contact force (ICF), and total peak force (TPF) in shod and unshod runners was analyzed. Fourteen collegiate runners attended 12 total sessions over a two week period. Subjects performed a baseline trial, running eight (10-20 meter) repetitions, four barefoot and four shod, at three different stations; running over a force plate, running in front of a SONY DCR-HC52 video camera (30fps) and running in front of a Casio Exilim Pro EX-F1 camera (300fps). A Post-Test (PT) was conducted at the end of the BTP. A repeated measure ANOVA showed significance (p