The influence of foot muscles exercises and minimalist shoes on lactate threshold velocity in long-distance amateur runners: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

The exercises of plantar foot muscles may have beneficial effects on the performance of the lower extremity muscles. The aim of this study was to compare two methods of foot muscle strengthening: direct short foot muscle exercises and indirect activation through training in minimalist footwear in regard to influence on lactate threshold velocity in long-distance runners. 55 recreational runners aged 21–45 years took part in that study. They were randomly divided into 2 groups: Group 1 (n = 25) with short foot muscle exercises, and Group 2 (n = 30) with training in minimalist shoes. The progressive running test was performed to determine heart rate (HR) and running velocity corresponding to lactate threshold (VLT). Two-way ANOVA was used to determine the significance of the differences regarding the evaluated variables. After the 8-week training program, higher values of VLT were observed in both groups. This change was significant only in Group 1 (p < 0.05). In Group 2, the higher value was noted but the changes were non-significant. Strengthening of the short foot muscles may improve lactate threshold velocity which is connected with running performance. Considering the obtained results, it is worth contemplating the implementation of these methods in the training of long-distance runners.