There are several factors that influence the usage of a treadmill. Some people enjoy short bouts of intense workouts while others prefer long and steady runs.
Some people run on a treadmill while watching new episodes of Stranger Things while others prefer to direct their attention and efforts into running with upbeat music.
A growing body of research shows that walking barefoot on a treadmill has a positive effect on enhancing the memory of a person when compared to running with shoes.
In this article, we will not only discuss this in detail but also understand the pros and cons of walking barefoot on a treadmill.
We will also have a peak on tips to prevent treadmill injuries.
Let’s get started.
Is It Better To Walk Barefoot On A Treadmill?
It is better to run or walk barefoot on a treadmill. Research has found various benefits of walking barefoot on a treadmill. It helps in overcoming chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity.
It also helps in enhancing the memory glance of the runner as the runner has to pay serious attention so as to not step on any sharp objects which also enhances the form of the runner.
That said, whether you are running barefoot outdoors or on a treadmill, it requires some precautions which must be taken care of before you start.
Pros & Cons Of Walking Barefoot On A Treadmill
Running or walking barefoot on a treadmill may be beneficial for a person and harmful for others. It mostly depends on an individual runner’s skill level and form.
Pros of Walking Barefoot On A Treadmill
The flexibility and convenience of jogging barefoot account for the majority of the advantages.
Additionally, running barefoot may help reduce impact, improve balance and concentration, and offer the calves a better workout.
Obviously, this depends on the ability and form of each runner. Running barefoot could be advantageous for some, but it might be challenging for others.
Running barefoot has a stronger impact on your memory than running with shoes.
The University of North Florida researchers have found that memory is improved after at least 16 minutes of barefoot running.
Due to the additional tactile demands of barefoot running, the barefoot condition appears to process sensory feedback more quickly. This suggests that running may be related to memory.
Cons of Walking Barefoot On A Treadmill
Let’s see some challenges that you may face while walking barefoot on a treadmill.
1. Potential cuts and scrapes on the skin of the foot
Due to the rough surface of the treadmill, you may get blisters, cuts, and scrapes on the bottom of your foot if you are walking barefoot on a treadmill.
Additionally to this, the treadmill may get hot and cause irritation or burning sensation on the bottom of your feet.
2. The treadmill comes towards you ‘
Walking or running on a treadmill is different from running outdoors. When you are running on a treadmill, the force is directed towards the toes which put additional strain on barefoot.
Decreasing speed and increasing the incline can help you avoid this. This will eventually help in landing on the treadmill barefoot.
3. Breaks under Stress
A stress fracture is a little fracture brought on by continuous stress.
Due to the high-impact nature of running, runners are already at risk for stress fractures; nevertheless, poor foot support may worsen the condition.
Also, read:
- What Is Underhand Front Raise? How Can You Do It?
- 14 Proven Benefits of Doing 100 Jumping Jacks a Day
Few Things To Consider Before Starting To Run Barefoot On A Treadmill
Walking around barefoot may seem unusual at first but it provides several advantages.
Going barefoot has been known to provide various health benefits including reduced stress, foot pain, and boosted blood flow throughout the body.
If you’re prepared to make a few tweaks, jogging barefoot on a treadmill is a realistic alternative when the weather doesn’t permit it.
Unlike running outdoors, using a treadmill provides a stable and safe running surface. You’ll probably need to change your running technique and the treadmill’s settings in order to go barefoot on a treadmill securely.
On a treadmill, running barefoot shouldn’t hurt but if it does, stop using the machine until you consult with your doctor again.
There are a few things that you must consider and need to take care of before you start running barefoot on a treadmill.
There are numerous types of treadmills. The first three considerations for selecting one are:
- low heat output
- the mechanism for suspending decks
- a smooth running belt for comfort
When you are selecting a treadmill and you intend to run barefoot on it, keep the following in mind:
1. Shock Absorption
It is important to understand and examine your treadmill for shock absorption. If your treadmill has inadequate shock absorption, then it might cause you joint pain.
If you do not want to face any problems related to this, you can also invest in a good treadmill mat that will reduce noise and provide shock absorption.
2. Length of the running deck
The length of the running deck of a treadmill should be 64 inches.
Treadmills with shorter decks are better for walking and longer decks are better for running. A wooden board beneath your running belt and longer decks are ideal for running barefoot on a treadmill.
3. Running belt texture
Because a running belt is made for shoes, the surface of it is rough. Starting with shorter times and extending them gradually is recommended.
Tips To Prevent Treadmill Injuries
Here are some tips to prevent injuries from Treadmill:
1. Start out slowly
It is advised to hold off on using treadmills at first if you are new to barefoot running. Give your feet some time to adjust to going barefoot. You can practice barefoot walking before gradually moving on to running.
2. Ideal adjustment to the treadmill
To keep the feet safe, you would need to often combine different speeds and incline levels.
The same parts of the legs are used repeatedly while walking or running barefoot on a treadmill. This continuous motion can be avoided by altering speed and incline, which lowers the risk of overuse damage.
3. Be alert while running barefoot on a treadmill
The healthiness of your feet is directly impacted by how you landed when running barefoot on a treadmill.
You allow your toes adequate room, make sure to rest on your midfoot, take quick, light steps, and run a little behind where you would usually stay on the treadmill.
You may also like:
- What Are The Results For 30 Minutes A Day On Stationary Bike?
- Home Gym Vs Gym Membership: Which Is A Better Choice?
Is Running On A Treadmill Better Than Running Outside?
There are numerous pros and cons to both running on a treadmill and running outside.
We have fairly discussed them above in the article. While some people prefer one over the other, some people enjoy doing both.
Ultimately, the best way to figure out what works better for you is to experiment with both and see what you prefer. There are also some differences in the calorie-burning potential of each option.
If you are someone who enjoys running outdoors, you may find that you have more energy when running on natural terrain.
You may also find that running outdoors helps in clearing your head and reduces stress hormones.
However, running outdoors can also be difficult in extreme weather conditions, and you may need to be careful of hazards such as traffic or uneven surfaces.
Running on a treadmill can be a viable option if you want to burn more calories.
This is because treadmills typically have an incline feature, which can help you to burn more calories than running on the level ground outdoors.
Treadmills can also be a good option if you are trying to avoid bad weather conditions or hazardous terrain.
However, some people find that running on a treadmill can be boring, and the monotony can make it difficult to stick with your workout routine.
Running outdoors also exposes you to fresh air and natural light, which can have benefits for your mental health.
If you’re someone who loves being outdoors, then running outside is probably the better option for you. However, if you prefer the predictability of the treadmill, then by all means continue using it.
Conclusion
Running or walking barefoot on a treadmill might be difficult. But it can still be safe and healthy with a few minor technique adjustments and awareness.
Running on a treadmill offers similar health benefits as running outside and because of the tactile connection between your legs and the treadmill, you can improve your memory as a result.
You can more easily achieve the workout you require in a number of ways. Your home treadmill makes it simpler for you to run long distances while removing road hazards like gravel, potholes, and traffic.
By the end, you’ll also have improved intellectually. Sounds like a situation where everyone benefits!
