Good Vibrations: Walking, Running, Minimal Shoes & Vibration Plates

Biomechanist Katy Bowman and biologist Dr Jeannette Loram explore the fascinating world of vibration: the benefits and costs of impact to the body and the importance of sensing vibration in humans and other animals.

Katy and Jeannette discuss how foot impacts during walking may actually form part of the brain’s circulatory system. They also unpack the science of vibration plates and whether they are useful for muscle strength, bone health, and balance. The conversation then turns to running, exploring how it generates vibrations through the body’s soft tissues, how these vibrations may affect performance, and what runners can do about it. Finally, they share some remarkable examples of vibration sensing in animals and consider how modern lifestyles may limit this sense in humans.

The discussion on impact and contact with the ground continues with Mike Dally of Earth Runners®, creators of minimalist earthing sandals. Katy and Mike talk about the aims of minimalist footwear in reducing interference between the foot and the ground, how to adapt to minimalist sandals, and new designs in development, including an easy-to-put-on children’s sandal.

Enhanced Show Notes and Full Transcript

0:00 The barefoot shoe expo debrief

3:40 The Dynamic Collective

6:40 Introduction to vibrations and waves

8:22 Walking vibrations and brain health

13:26 Vibrations and bone: building bone and fracture

16:04 Soft tissue vibration during running

17:45 Vibration plates: how do they work, and are they worth it?

25:25 Running revisited