Is there a higher potential for injury if lifting barefoot? I'm thinking the back is the only thing that needs support when lifting and as long as you keep your form correct, shoes shouldn't matter??? I was just wondering. I was lifting earlier and my feet were burning up for some reason so made me think of it.

Gonna be honest and say that I've been lifting barefoot since day 1. Im about to complete round three and have had no problems whatsoever. I also have hardwood floors though. I do recall getting rug burn on my foot while doing yoga when I had an area rug. Got rid of it since then and have been using a yoga mat.

But i have had no problems lifting bearfoot.

If you ever stub your toe on a barbell you won't ever lift barefoot again. But seriously, can't imagine not wearing shoes to lift when your arches probably need the support more than ever.

i think there are varying thoughts on this. one is what robc in wi already mentioned is lack of support for your feet/arches. the other, is that if you'll get an "added workout" in that you do a little more (in your legs and feet at least) since its having to work harder at stabilizing your body, since it doesnt have the assistance from a shoe. not really sure what's "better" really. some are more comfortable one way or the other.

Thanks for all your input. I guess I'll try and see how it goes. I did Chest and Back this morning and there are a couple of weights exercises in it and I was OK with it. I actually liked it, especially the fact that my legs felt like they were doing something too as Ben said. We'll see Thursday when I do arms how it's going to go.

I do all my workouts barefoot and have for the last year with no problems. That includes P90X and Insanity workouts. Of course I also run barefoot, so many seem to feel that my opinion on this subject is tainted by my "craziness" (that's the word my wife uses for people who don't wear shoes while they exercise).

My feeling is that if you are more comfortable working out without shoes, as I am, then don't wear them. If I'm not mistaken, and I often am, lifting shoes are not built for support, but rather for traction.