Do MBT Trainers work?

Answer 1

Try 'search for questions' - this one's been asked before.

MBT trainers are just an exaggerated version of the 'rocker' shape built into any running shoe. The running shoe uses the most efficient 'rocker' shape, so that your foot 'rolls' forward from heel to toe with the least energy input.

(a lot of people try not to land on their heel when running, and this interferes with the effectiveness of their shoe)

The MBT makes you activate a lot of calf muscles in order to control the excessive 'rolling' motion. This can increase the amount of work you're doing while you run, but the effect doesn't adapt to your level of ability.

So if you've never used them, you risk an overuse injury; after using them for a while, they can lose their effectiveness, because they no longer challenge your ability.

You can generate a similar effect yourself by running with an exaggerated heel-&-toe action. You'll need to slow down while you do this, and only do it for a couple of minutes at a time. Increase the time gradually as you get used to the action.

You can also alternate running with your weight SLIGHTLY towards the outer edge (foot inversion) & the inner edge (eversion) of your shoe, and also with your toes out & toes in. Do both of these exercises carefully, at a slow speed, and only for brief periods. A wide, well cushioned shoe that fits you properly will help.

The exercises imitate the different 'running styles' that different running shoes are built to suit. In fact, these 'styles' are just postural (foot positioning) habits, and everybody can improve their ankle & knee stability by getting a more versatile running action.

Answer 2

They work in the sense that they give a good workout as the movement is different to regular walking or running. Being slightly different means your body will have to get use to the new movement and during this time you will get cardio vascular benefits from them. When you have got use to them the benefits will reduce and like anything else you will have to increase the speed or distance to continue getting the benefits.
They have no real functional benefit other than improving your fitness. Some people believe that they help improve your running technique, but personally I don't as it puts your legs through a movement that would be difficult to replicate when your not wearing them.
The important thing with exercise is variety and so give them ago but it won't be long before you will need to spice it up again and change your routine to maintain the benefits.

Answer 3

i've got had a pair for greater or less 18 months and actually, i do no longer quite think of they are very well worth the money. i think of that's solid in the event that they inspire you to pass walking/working yet as for making your legs greater toned...that should be the greater effective workout you're taking no longer the footwear. I used to placed on them to and from artwork and that i used to holiday up (uneven paving stones + over thick soles) on a on an huge-unfold basis foundation :0( in my opinion, initiate doing the greater effective workout and carry on for 2 months, in the journey that your nevertheless doing it then get the MBTS, if no longer you have saved your self £a hundred and forty and countless embarrassment tripping up each and every 2 minutes.

Answer 4

They tone your legs, if that's what you're looking for. You're legs ache like hell the first few times you use them, and you do feel a bit awkward at first.

If you buy a pair, it's far better to get fitted for them and shown the technique for walking in them (it's not 'normal' walking technique) than just buying them on line. A 5 minute lesson from an expert helps enormously.

Answer 5

No they will break your ankles

Answer 6

yes definitly .