Cook, S. D., Schultz, G., Omey, M. L., Wolf, M. W., & Brunet, M. F. (1993). Development of lower leg strength and flexibility with the strength shoe. American Journal of Sports Medicine, 21, 445-448.

Two groups of six male track athletes were exposed to an eight-week training program either wearing a strength shoe (4-inch sole platform) or a normal shoe. Specific workouts were for 45 min three times per week.

The shoe produced no benefit in ankle joint dorsi-flexion, vertical leap, 40-yd dash, or calf circumference. The shoe produced shin splints.

Implication. Wearing a strength shoe did not improve performance or function in the lower leg. It was associated with the excessive use injury of shin splints.

Return to Table of Contents for this issue.