This week I?ve been trying out my new Vibram FiveFingers shoes for running, walking and working out in the gym and it?s been quite a voyage of discovery. I?ve heard a lot about the way minimalist running could aid proper movement and increase bodily awareness over the last few years, but it wasn?t until I experienced it myself that I really understood how much difference shedding my cushioned shoes could make.
I?ve already talked quite a lot about making the transition to minimalist footwear on this blog. So, as I?ve given you the ?how?, I thought I?d go into a bit more detail on the ?why? and discuss some of the potential benefits of wearing Vibram FiveFingers shoes.
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To sum it up in a few words, it?s really about waking up the body-mind connection. Minimalist running is also sometimes referred to as ?natural running? as it thought that without cushioned shoes, we revert to what is a more natural style of movement. 
In 2001 Vibram set out create a new type of shoe, one which would have a huge impact on running and fitness training around the world. They designed a sole which would allow the foot move as it was bare, whilst offering protection to the skin and in 2006 the Vibram FiveFingers was revealed.
The thin, flexible sole and separate toe compartments give the foot freedom to move and flex. This, along with the increased sensitivity to changes in angles and texture of terrain, means the foot can function in the way it has evolved to support and stablise the body.
The last six years have seen the shoes go from curiosity to commonplace thanks to a growing interest in minimalist and barefoot running fuelled by research into the benefits, an enthusiastic group of supporters, and Christopher McDougall?s internationally bestselling book, Book to Run.
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And the popularity of minimalist footwear continues to mount as more and more people discover the many benefits, which could possibly include:
???? Foot health
???? Stronger lower legs
???? Improved range of motion
???? Increased sensory perception
???? Improved balance
???? More ?natural? running form, which reduces impact on the joints of the lower body
A couple of points of my own I?d like to add to that is that Vibram FiveFingers are super-comfy and you can wash them in a washing machine! Plus they?re a great conversation starter.
Why not join me on my minimalist adventure and discover the benefits for yourself? You can try the shoes for free and get lots of excellent advice at the free Vibram FiveFingers Clinics coming up across London until August 12th.
Here's a full of the clinics.
Tags: shoes that look like feetSource: http://www.fitnessrocks.co.uk/blog/shoes-look-feet-why
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