A physical therapist answers the question, Is it okay to work out barefoot at home?

The answer: There are benefits but also risks.

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Do we really need to put on shoes?

woman sweating in the gym

physical therapist

So we asked a physical therapist whats the real deal.

Is the ground even?

Working out barefoot is one way to augment that feedback.

Woman walking on a treadmill at the gym.

Foot muscle activity significantly decreases when we have thick cushions and pre-formed arches strapped on, explains Dr. Hanson.

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Full body female athlete in sportswear using rowing machine during fitness workout in gym.

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We lose protection and shock absorption

Of course, there arerisks associated with working out without shoes.

They also offer shock absorption for our joints, shares Dr. Hanson.

Happy woman dancing and listening to music near a green empty wall outdoor in the city.

physical therapist

And they offer some padding in case you, well, mistakenly drop a weight on them.

Though you could always work out on a cushioned mat or carpet.

When should you definitely wear sneakers?

Healthy female training in the gym, performing a hip thrust.

Keep in mind…

If you want to work out barefoot, consider the pop in of exercise youre doing.

Pilates, yoga and martial arts are all performed barefoot, she adds.

A young black woman doing post-run stretches in the park on the road amidst green grass and trees.

If you always wear shoes, stay barefoot indoors one to two hours a day.

Try grabbing grass with your toes.

Notice the way the grass feels on your foot.

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