How Doing This One Simple Thing Will All But Eliminate Arthritis, Plantar Fasciitis, Spinal Stenosis, Knee Pain, Back Pain, Neck Pain, Achilles Injuries, & Shin Splints!

In today's world, we're surrounded by BIG. PAINFUL. LIES. that have infiltrated our everyday lives, leading us to believe that certain products or habits are beneficial when they are, in fact, incredibly harmful. One of the most pervasive of these lies revolves around a product most of us use daily: shoes.

Yes, you read that correctly. The most destructive force to the human body isn't an obvious enemy but something we've been led to believe is essential for our health and performance. The truth is that the shoes we wear are causing more harm than good.

But it’s not the type of shoes we wear that is the problem, it’s that we wear shoes at all.

The Big Lie: Why Shoes Are Hurting You
It's time to confront the core false belief that we've been fed: the idea that shoes are indispensable for protecting our feet and enhancing our performance. This couldn't be further from the truth. Here's what I've learned over the years: if you follow the money, you'll often find that it leads to lies and mistruths.

The Shocking Truth from "Born to Run"
Christopher McDougall’s book Born to Run provides a wealth of insights into the damage caused by shoes. According to Barefoot Ted, "shoes may be the most destructive force to ever hit the human foot." Dr. Daniel Lieberman of Harvard University echoes this sentiment, noting that many foot and knee injuries are a direct result of running in shoes that weaken our feet, cause over-pronation, and lead to knee problems.

Lieberman goes even further, suggesting that if shoes had never existed, more people would be running and fewer would suffer from heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and other ailments prevalent in the Western world. This perspective challenges the entire foundation of the running shoe industry.

The Stanford University Revelation
In April 2001, two Nike representatives visited Stanford University to get feedback on their shoes. They were shocked to find the track team training barefoot. Ben Lonnata, the NCAA Coach of the Year, explained that his runners trained barefoot because it made them faster and reduced injuries. This simple, natural approach to running defies the heavily marketed benefits of modern shoes.

The Painful Truths About shoes
The Worst Shoes Are the Best: Studies have shown that runners wearing the most expensive shoes are 123% more likely to get injured than those wearing cheaper shoes. A study of 4,358 runners found that those wearing shoes costing over $90 were twice as likely to get hurt as those wearing shoes under $40.

Feet Thrive Under Pressure: More cushioning in shoes actually provides less protection. Human beings are designed to run without shoes, and the foot is an incredibly efficient weight-bearing structure that becomes stronger under stress. By wearing overly supportive shoes, we atrophy the muscles in our feet and make them more prone to injury.

No Evidence of Benefit: No shoe company can provide data proving that their shoes prevent injuries, improve speed, or offer any significant benefit. In fact, since studies began in the late 70s, injuries like Achilles complaints have risen, while conditions like plantar fasciitis have remained constant.
Feet Live for a Fight: Feet are designed to handle pressure and thrive under stress. When we enclose them in shoes, we make them lazy, leading to weaker muscles and more injuries.

Real-Life Testimonials
Consider the story of Hawk Harper, a college defensive end who was told his running days were over after blowing out all the cartilage in his knees. Defying expectations, Harper went on to complete over 70 marathons, winning the St. George Marathon with a time of 2:22. He found success by embracing a more natural running style and footwear.

The Solution: Go Barefoot or Minimalist
If you want to eliminate the risk of arthritis, plantar fasciitis, spinal stenosis, knee pain, back pain, neck pain, Achilles injuries, and shin splints, the solution is simple: ditch the traditional shoes. Opt for going barefoot when possible or choose minimalist footwear that allows your feet to move naturally.
Paul W. Brand, a pioneer in the field of foot health, famously said, "We can wipe out every common foot ailment within a generation by taking off our shoes." In countries where people predominantly go barefoot, foot ailments are virtually non-existent.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Foot Health
The notion that shoes are essential for health and performance is a deeply ingrained false belief. By challenging this belief and embracing a more natural approach to foot care, you can significantly reduce the risk of many common injuries and ailments. Follow the example of elite runners and consider the benefits of going barefoot or wearing minimalist shoes. Your feet—and the rest of your body—will thank you.