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Conceptualizing minimalist footwear: an objective definition.
Devon R Coetzee1, Yumna Albertus1, Nicholas Tam1
1a UCT Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , Western Cape , South Africa.
Minimalist running shoes may reduce injury risk by altering biomechanics. This review defines minimalist footwear based on flexibility, weight, and stack height to clarify research findings.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Running Science
Background:
- High incidence of running-related injuries necessitates injury prevention strategies.
- Minimalist footwear, designed to mimic barefoot running, is one such intervention.
- Conflicting research on minimalist shoe efficacy highlights the need for a clear definition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a structural definition for minimalist footwear.
- To provide a basis for consistent research on minimalist running shoes.
- To clarify the influence of footwear on running biomechanics.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature on minimalist footwear and running biomechanics.
- Analysis of studies examining the impact of footwear on biomechanical variables.
- Synthesis of data to establish defining characteristics of minimalist shoes.
Main Results:
- Minimalist footwear is defined by specific physical characteristics.
- Key features include high sole/upper flexibility, weight ≤ 200g, heel stack height ≤ 20mm, and heel-toe differential ≤ 7mm.
Conclusions:
- A standardized definition of minimalist footwear is crucial for consistent research outcomes.
- This definition will aid in understanding the true biomechanical effects and injury reduction potential of minimalist shoes.
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