Key Takeaway
A 4-week minimalist shoe walking intervention improved balance and shifted foot posture toward a more neutral arch in young adults compared to conventional shoe controls.
Summary
This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of a 4-week minimalist shoe walking program on foot posture and balance in healthy young adults. Participants were randomly assigned to wear either minimalist shoes or conventional shoes for daily walking over the intervention period.
The minimalist shoe group showed significant improvements in balance performance and measurable changes in foot posture, with arches shifting toward a more neutral position. These changes suggest that reduced shoe cushioning and support encourages greater proprioceptive feedback and intrinsic foot muscle activation during walking.
The findings add to growing evidence that minimalist footwear can positively influence foot biomechanics in relatively short timeframes. The balance improvements are particularly relevant, as better balance is associated with reduced fall risk and improved athletic performance. The study supports the idea that conventional cushioned shoes may limit natural foot function and proprioceptive development.
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