Running has become a very popular lifetime physical activity even though there are numerous reports of running injuries. Although common theories have pointed to impact forces and overpronation as the main contributors to chronic running injuries, the increased use of cushioning and orthotics has done little to decrease running injuries. A new method that has been evaluated by researchers to reduce injury occurrence involves the use of barefoot activity to promote positive adaptations to running stresses, which may increase the strength of supporting structures and reduce running injury rates. This article describes this theory and how coaches and runners can implement barefoot activity in a training regimen. (Contains 1 table.)