Wearing MBTs provides many pro-body benefits: this is the result of an increasing number of international studies supporting the numerous health benefits of the "anti-shoe".
An all-round success
Step. Rolling action. Step. Rolling action. This simple movement creates tremendous benefit. Helping solve knee 1;2 and back problems,3;4 relieve tension in the neck,5 ease joint pains6;7 – and more or less in passing help to tone and shape firm buttocks and thighs.8 And burning more calories when standing9 and slow running10 compared to ordinary shoes.
The important thing is that every one of these claims stands up to scientific research - which is why the "anti-shoe" is now even prescribed by doctors and recommended by fitness experts.
Why natural movement is so healthy
The positive effect of the MBT is based on the principle of "natural instability". An effect which can, in fact, be achieved without the benefit of high-tech footwear: by simply walking barefoot on soft, uneven, natural ground such as sand or moss. However, in today's thoroughly modern world this is not always easy to do - but the health benefits are significant. While wearing MBTs the body is forced to maintain its natural balance, thereby stimulating and exercising the body's supporting muscle system which results in numerous pro-body benefits.
From hard, flat surfaces to soft, natural, uneven ground
MBTs activate and strengthen the small supporting muscles which are the body's "natural shock absorbers".11 The key to the MBT is the patented sole construction, at the heart of which is the soft Masai Sensor. It is located directly beneath the heel and simulates walking and standing on uneven ground. This creates a natural instability, to which the body responds with small, intuitive, compensatory movements. The midsole, with its integrated balancing area, requires an active and controlled rolling movement with every step. In conjunction with the Masai Sensor, the body's entire musculoskeletal system is activated and exercised, the muscles in the buttocks,6 stomach and back4 are strengthened, posture and gait are kept relaxed and upright6;12 and stress on the joints2;6;7 and back6 is relieved. Not only does the anti-shoe increase the fitness levels of its wearer with every step, it also has sustainable health benefits.
1 Nigg et al. 2006 a
2 Andriacchi et al. 2008
3 Nigg et al. 2007
4 Jørgensen 2006
5 Smolenski et al. 2008
6 Vernon et al. 2004
7 Nigg et al 2006 b
8 Linde & Stegen 2005
9 Hoppeler et al. 2008
10 Müller 2007
11 Nigg et al. 2008
12 Nigg et al. 2009