Journals Information
International Journal of Human Movement and Sports Sciences Vol. 13(3), pp. 600 - 607
DOI: 10.13189/saj.2025.130314
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Comparison of Lower Limb Electromyographic Activity while Walking in Sandals versus Sneakers in Individuals Aged 20-30 Years Old: A Cross-Sectional Study
Daehee Lee , Hyejoo Jeon *
Department of Physical Therapy, U1 University, South Korea
ABSTRACT
Sandals have become an increasingly popular choice of footwear due to their comfort and convenience, particularly in casual and warm-weather environments. However, differences in gait patterns between sandals and sneakers may have biomechanical implications. This study aimed to compare lower-limb muscle activation during walking in sandals versus sneakers. Twenty-eight healthy participants in their twenties (12 men and 16 women) participated in this study. Each individual walked a 10-meter distance while wearing both types of footwear, with surface electromyography (EMG) sensors attached to their lower limbs. Muscle activation was recorded for eight muscles: gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, biceps femoris, rectus femoris, medial gastrocnemius, lateral gastrocnemius, tibialis anterior, and soleus. Results indicated significantly lower muscle activity in the lateral gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior when walking in sandals compared to sneakers (p < 0.05), while rectus femoris activation significantly increased (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in walking speed between the two conditions (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that sandals alter lower-limb muscle activation patterns, potentially reducing walking efficiency and dynamic stability. Such changes could have implications for long-term musculoskeletal health, especially in populations with pre-existing gait impairments or balance issues. A key limitation of this study is the relatively homogenous sample of young, healthy adults, which may restrict generalizability to older or clinical populations. Further research should investigate long-term adaptations to different footwear types and their potential influence on joint loading, balance control, and injury risk across diverse populations.
KEYWORDS
Footwear, Shoes, Walking, EMG, Lower Limb
Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Daehee Lee , Hyejoo Jeon , "Comparison of Lower Limb Electromyographic Activity while Walking in Sandals versus Sneakers in Individuals Aged 20-30 Years Old: A Cross-Sectional Study," International Journal of Human Movement and Sports Sciences, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 600 - 607, 2025. DOI: 10.13189/saj.2025.130314.
(b). APA Format:
Daehee Lee , Hyejoo Jeon (2025). Comparison of Lower Limb Electromyographic Activity while Walking in Sandals versus Sneakers in Individuals Aged 20-30 Years Old: A Cross-Sectional Study. International Journal of Human Movement and Sports Sciences, 13(3), 600 - 607. DOI: 10.13189/saj.2025.130314.