Is It Better to Run with Shoes or Barefoot on a Treadmill?

When it comes to the best way to exercise and lose weight, I believe many people including you will think of running in the first place. Running is really a great aerobic exercise, which can not only help you burn more calories, but also benefit your cardiovascular health. But when the outdoor weather is not conducive to running, if you are willing to make some adjustments, running exercise machine is a viable substitute. Unlike outdoor running, it provides a safe and predictable surface, which can make your running safer. Today, the treadmill has become a popular choice for home gyms by virtue of its own advantages.

Barefoot running has been gaining in popularity over the past few years. Runners are getting back to nature and enjoying the feeling of the freedom it gives. But since some gyms don't allow people to run on the running exercise machine without shoes, you may never have tried it. But now that you have bought a new motorized treadmill for your home gym and there are no rules, I think you are battling to choose between running with shoes and barefoot. There is a lot of debate about whether it is better to run with shoes or barefoot on the running exercise machine. In this article, I will tell you the advantages and disadvantages of both sides for your reference.

What are the advantages of running with shoes on it?
Running with shoes on the running exercise machine is expected to gain the following advantages. Let's have a look together.

1. Protection against injury
Running barefoot on the running exercise machine will easily affect your ankles and soles. Without support at your ankle, you become more prone to rolling your ankles or soreness from landing awkwardly. What's more, if you run barefoot, the soles of your feet are easily burned and blistered from the friction of the running belt. But running with shoes on the running exercise machine can provide extra cushioning and support for your feet, thus helping you avoid injury.

2. Increased cushioning
If you run barefoot all the time, even the running exercise machine with advanced buffer system will damage your feet over time. However, the cushioning from your shoes can reduce excessive stress placed on your heels, toes and ankles while running. Extra cushioning will also soften the impact on your joints while running, minimising your risk of injury. You will also get a better bounce from your shoes cushioning allowing you to easily propel yourself forward while running.

3. Improved performance
Running with shoes on the running machine will provide you with the right support and comfort to reach your maximum potential. When you run, the improvement of your running ability, form and speed will become more obvious.

What are the disadvantages of running with shoes on it?
Although running with shoes on the treadmill has many advantages, it still has some inevitable disadvantages. Firstly, running with shoes on the running exercise machine will make your feet sweat more and increase the risk of blisters. Secondly, shoes will add extra weight to your exercise and make it harder for you to burn calories. Finally, wearing shoes will make your balance on the running exercise machine more difficult, which may cause you to fall.

What are the advantages of barefoot running on it?
Running barefoot on the running exercise machine has aroused many people's interest. Below, I will list a few advantages of running barefoot on the running exercise machine.

1. Strengthen muscles
When you run barefoot on the motorized treadmill, your muscles start to work harder and push to the limit because your feet touch the ground directly and you don't wear any running shoes. Your calf muscles, Achilles tendon and other foot ligaments are fully stretched and activated. Over time, your calves, ankles and feet will become stronger.

2. Efficient and smooth running
When you run barefoot on the running exercise machine, the weight will naturally fall on the sole of your foot instead of the heel. Taking shorter strides on the running exercise machine with soft landing not only reduces the impact on the heel but keeps your running uninterrupted and efficient.

3. Improved coordination and balance
When you run barefoot on the running exercise machine, you will be more aware of how to keep your body posture and balance as your feet step on the running exercise machine belt every step. When your feet stretch to support your weight and support your leg movements, your body is better supported, which can greatly improve your coordination and balance.

What are the disadvantages of barefoot running on it?
Here are some common disadvantages of running barefoot on the running exercise machine. First of all, running barefoot on the running exercise machine may increase the risk of injury to the soles of your feet, such as blisters. Secondly, running barefoot on the running machine can cause stress on your sole muscles because the heels aren't getting worked. If the stress continues, the tendons and muscles become overworked and stiff, which may lead to your muscle strain.

As you can see, I discussed the advantages and disadvantages of running with shoes and barefoot on a treadmill in this article. Both have their own advantages, and which one you choose depends on your preference. But remember that if you choose to run with shoes, you must choose to wear light and breathable shoes.