Minimalist Footwear and Foot Core Exercises
Effects on foot muscle sizes, strength, and biomechanics.
This study systematically analysed the effects of foot core exercises and minimalist footwear on foot muscle size, strength, and biomechanics during dynamic activities like walking and running.
Key Points
Aim
The study evaluates whether specific foot exercises and minimalist footwear can effectively increase intrinsic foot muscle size, enhance foot strength, and alter biomechanical outcomes during locomotion.
Methods
Data Collection: Researchers searched databases like PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and SportDiscus for randomised controlled trials lasting at least four weeks.
Analysis: A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted for outcomes with at least two studies available. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals were reported.
Evidence Quality: Certainty was assessed based on bias risk, imprecision, inconsistency, and indirectness.
Results
Foot Strength:
Minimalist footwear improved toe strength (SMD: 0.02–0.76), particularly for toes 2–5.
Foot exercises reduced medial longitudinal arch motion during running (SMD: 0.08–0.82).
Both interventions generally supported increased foot strength.
Foot Muscle Size:
Evidence was conflicting regarding changes in muscle size; some studies showed increases while others did not.
Biomechanics:
Minimalist footwear occasionally altered walking and running mechanics but not consistently across all studies.
Evidence Certainty:
Most findings were rated low to very low certainty due to limited studies and high bias risks.
