Jogging barefoot
might be better for you than running in running shoes. This is the conclusion
of new research from scientists at Glasgow University in Scotland. In fact,
researchers say running with running shoes may actually be harmful to our
bodies. The research team found that 75% of the joggers in their study
experienced something called ‘heel strike’. This is when our heels hit the
ground too hard and hurt our bones. This happens around 1,000 times for every
1.5 km we run. The scientists say running barefoot is more natural. People who
run without shoes do not land on their heels. This avoids sending shock through
their body. Barefoot runners may have less risk of injury than those who wear
running shoes.
The research
helps explain why many long-distance runners run so well barefoot. Researchers
said: “For most of human history, runners were either barefoot or wore minimal
footwear such as sandals…with…little cushioning.” Barefoot running is common in
many parts of the world, especially Africa. The most famous barefoot runner is
South Africa’s Zola Budd, who ran without shoes in the 1984 Olympics. Dr.
Daniel Lieberman from Harvard University warns people to start slowly to avoid
injury if they begin running barefoot.
Vocabulary:
Barefoot – no shoes
Harmful – something that hurts you
Heel – the back of the foot that touches
the ground
Shock – when one thing hits something else
Minimal – not very much
Cushioning – helps make shoes softer
Source: http://www.breakingnewsenglish.com/1001/100129-running_shoes.html
