• Start slowly. Your feet need time to grow tough skin. Start by walking short distances without shoe, and increase your distances very slowly to give your body time to adapt.
• Listen to your body. In addition to the skin on your feet, your muscles and joints will need time to get used to walking and running without the support of shoes. If your feet or muscles ache, stop what you’re doing and don’t increase your workout until you feel comfortable.
• Take care of your muscles. Stretch your legs often and massage your feet and lower legs to help muscles heal and gain strength. Stretching also helps your Achilles tendon and feet stay flexible.
• Make sure it feels right. You will naturally be able to feel when you are landing comfortably on your feet. If you notice too much of a shock when you land, slow down and focus on how your feet are meeting the ground. A gentle landing will feel almost like bouncing or jumping.