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Why is proper footwear important for reducing exercise injuries?

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A man in athletic clothing jogs along a paved path beside a black metal fence, with trees and another person in the background. — exercise Jogging.

While it is a common belief that proper footwear is essential for preventing exercise-related injuries, it is important to clarify that scientific data confirming a direct causal link between specific types of equipment and injury reduction is currently limited.1

Although researchers have not yet established definitive evidence, experts advise that using good equipment and paying particular attention to proper footwear are commonsense practices for those engaging in physical activity. In the broader field of biomechanics, which studies the effects of forces on the body, researchers analyze human movement to optimize interactions with the environment and improve injury prevention. Devices such as arch supports are often utilized to provide structural assistance to the foot, reflecting the biomechanical goal of minimizing load on the body.123

Until the causes of exercise injuries are better understood, you should prioritize gradual progression in training intensity, monitor your body for early warning signs, and feel empowered to experiment with techniques that feel most comfortable for your individual needs.1