The uniqueness of FLexercise that stands us apart from other fitness groups is that we exercise in bare feet. The only exception is if you have to wear orthotics for a foot problem or in some cases of diabetes as the soles of the feet can be extremely sensitive.

Our founder Mary Bagot Stack believed in bare foot exercising as this allows the bones and muscles of the feet to develop strength and flexibility to help improve balance and movement. It also helps to align hips and knees giving a strong base. Shoes do not do this as toes are  restricted by the tops of the shoes.

Barefoot FLexercise wakes up nerves and receptors in feet

There are many nerves and receptors in our feet, which send signals to wake up certain muscle groups to strengthen and lengthen muscles and helps build up bone density. Bare feet that are grounded, either indoors or outside, help to release antioxidants.

Foot flexion, pointing and stretching helps to strengthen and lengthen calves and hamstrings, which is very important as we age to help prevent falls. It’s also important to keep our ankles flexible as they work a little like shock absorbers in your car, helping to keep you balanced when you change direction.

You may have noticed in recent FLexercise videos that shoes were being worn. This is purely because some classes were being taken outside because of Covid restrictions in the Auckland region. This was the only reason FLexercisers were wearing shoes. We believe it is better to get out in the fresh air and FLexercise than miss out all together.

Let’s look forward to 2022 and getting back into the benefits of exercising in bare feet.