An Exploratory Study Investigating the Effects of Barefoot Running on Working Memory

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Exercise Physiology
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Barefoot running is associated with altered sensory feedback and potentially increased attentional demands.
• Previous research has explored the physiological and biomechanical effects of barefoot running, but cognitive benefits remain less understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the cognitive effects of barefoot running compared to shod running.
• To determine if task complexity, specifically navigating obstacles, influences cognitive performance during running.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-two young adults completed a working memory test under four conditions: barefoot running with targets, barefoot running without targets, shod running with targets, and shod running without targets.
• Performance on the working memory test and running speed were measured.
• Heart rate was monitored to assess physiological response.

Main Results:

• Participants demonstrated significantly better working memory performance when running barefoot compared to shod, but only when required to step on targets.
• Heart rate was significantly higher during barefoot running conditions.
• No significant differences in running speed were observed between barefoot and shod conditions.

Conclusions:

• Barefoot running may enhance working memory, particularly when increased attention is required to navigate the environment.
• The findings suggest that the heightened sensory input and attentional demands of barefoot running, especially when avoiding obstacles, could positively impact cognitive function.
• Working memory enhancement may occur after approximately 16 minutes of barefoot running when focused attention on the ground is necessary.