squatting barefoot, chucks or proper weightlifting shoes?

**DamianWalker** · 26-01-2012 07:38 PM

i always workout barefoot, just wondering if it matters, proper shoes seem to have a raised heel? whys this?

**dkcoyle** · 26-01-2012 07:47 PM

When u first started training I made the mistake of squatting and dead lifting in running trainers. Once the weight started going up I realised this was a bad idea. I've been lifting barefoot for a while now however I bought some converse for the gym 2weeks ago and love them for squats and deads.

**dkcoyle** · 26-01-2012 07:48 PM

Quote

Originally Posted by dkcoyle

When u first started training I made the mistake of squatting and dead lifting in running trainers. Once the weight started going up I realised this was a bad idea. I've been lifting barefoot for a while now however I bought some converse for the gym 2weeks ago and love them for squats and deads.

Make that "when I first stated training"

**karryann** · 26-01-2012 07:52 PM

I squat and deadlift barefoot( so does my PT) , if I have to wear shoes it will be chucks(one of the gyms I use insists on footwear)

**DamianWalker** · 26-01-2012 07:59 PM

i always feel more stable bare foot, as when i do wear shoes the side walls of the shoes give in and my feet slide slightly to the sides.

if i do wear shoes, its pumps,plimsols what ever you call them, mainly because they have a flat sole and no compression.

**ben 21** · 26-01-2012 07:59 PM

i wear timberland boots in the gym, im not dropping a 50kg dumbell on my foot and breaking it, ending up sidelined for 6 weeks.

**MJ.23** · 26-01-2012 08:29 PM

The reason lifting shoes have a raised heel is to assist in squatting deeper by taking the emphasis off of ankle flexibility. When a lot of people try to squat deep, their heels raise off the floor naturally and you will be off balance. Wearing good oly shoes can get you better depth without needing to have the flexibility of a ballerina.

I have some adidas pp2's and they were my best gym investment to date imo.

**dope540** · 26-01-2012 09:43 PM

my do-wins. well priced, solid shoes

**Zeigler** · 26-01-2012 10:45 PM

Quote

Originally Posted by ben 21

i wear timberland boots in the gym, im not dropping a 50kg dumbell on my foot and breaking it, ending up sidelined for 6 weeks.

Dude I wear Timbs day-to-day....I've seen your log and you do walking lunges - how on earth?! haha. timbs weigh a ton and elevate your feet about an inch!!

Oh and Bare Foot ftw!