8 Points to Watch Out for When Walking Barefoot

1. 1. Simple stretching and warm-up exercises
2.  

Before walking, do simple stretching and warm-up exercises to loosen your muscles and joints. If you are walking barefoot during a hike, since there are uphill and downhill sections, make sure to loosen your ankles, knees, and lower back well to prevent strain.

 

2. If you're just starting out, begin on a gentle earthen path or on the sand at the beach.

 

Our feet have been protected for a long time by socks and sturdy shoes. If you are trying it for the first time, it may be difficult to step on a hard surface, so it is recommended to start on soft surfaces such as muddy paths or beach sand and gradually increase your grounding time.

 

3. When walking, always look at the 2 meters of ground ahead to check for hazardous materials.

 

Be careful of injuries caused by sharp objects such as stone fragments or thorny chestnuts while walking barefoot. If there are any hazardous materials, make sure to avoid them immediately by carefully checking the front and below as you walk.

 

Avoid for the time being if there are wounds or dryness causing cracks on the soles of the feet.

 

If there is a wound on the sole of the foot, it can become contaminated with bacteria and lead to a more serious illness, so exercise should be avoided until the skin has fully healed.

 

When walking barefoot in the forest, people do not walk on the grassy paths outside the designated trail.

 

Avoid walking in areas where tall grass has grown extensively and people do not usually go. Since hazardous materials are not visible to the naked eye, there may be sharp branches or barbed wire, so please avoid walking in such areas.

 

6. If you have conditions such as diabetes or neuropathy, proceed only after consulting with a doctor.

 

If you have a condition like the one above, it can be risky if a wound occurs, so please consult with a medical professional thoroughly before proceeding.

 

7. Walk with a vertical stride and avoid dragging your feet.

 

When walking, dragging your feet or kicking the ground can cause injuries such as cuts or bruises from protruding parts like stones on the ground. Walk with a steady, deliberate step.

 

8. Pay attention to hygiene

 

After walking barefoot, wash with clean water, especially in public places.