Running is a very popular recreational activity in the United States. The first running-specific shoes were produced in the 1970s and manufacturers have been making modifications to the design for the past 50 years. These modifications are attempts to increase comfort and decrease injury rates, however; despite these modifications, injury rates have remained consistent. This has led some to believe that running shoes alter form and place runners at more risk for injury. Running in shoes that offer protection but little support has been proposed as a mechanism to decrease running injury rates. These so-called, minimalist shoes, allow for more natural mechanics by removing constraints found in the traditional running shoe. The purpose of this study is to examine to acute effects of running in minimalist shoes among traditionally shod runners.
