When to Train Barefoot

If you want strong, resilient feet, one of the best things you can do is spend more time barefoot.

Without shoes, your balance changes and you feel more connected to the ground. The muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your feet and lower legs get a chance to do their job and strengthen naturally.

When should you ditch the shoes?

Whenever you can.

Warm-ups and cooldowns are a great place to start. But any exercise where your feet stay planted on the floor is fair game.

Barefoot jump rope? Bad idea.
Barefoot deadlifts? Good idea.

Squats and most single-leg movements are perfect opportunities too.

If you want strong, healthy feet — get those shoes off and get to work.

—Justin Miner