Views: 39 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-06-25 Origin: Site
In recent years, carbon - plated running shoes have set off a wave of enthusiasm in the sports world. Many parents have also started to buy these high - tech sports shoes for their children. However, many teenagers blindly pursue carbon - plated running shoes because of online promotion, thinking they are professional and "cool". Little do they know that this may have a huge impact on children's foot development and is also not conducive to their normal performance in physical fitness tests for school entrance.
I. Characteristics of Carbon - Plated Running Shoes
The most prominent feature of carbon - plated running shoes is the addition of a carbon fiber plate in the sole. This design can:
• Provide stronger rebound force
• Increase propulsion efficiency
• Reduce energy loss
• Improve sports performance
II. Characteristics of Teenagers' Foot Development
1. Characteristics of Skeletal System Development
• Growth Rate:
o 0 - 5 years old: A period of rapid growth, with an annual increase of about 2cm.
o 6 - 12 years old: A period of stable growth, with an annual increase of about 1cm.
o Puberty: The second period of rapid growth. For boys, it is about 13 - 16 years old; for girls, it is about 11 - 14 years old.
o Fully mature: About 18 - 20 years old.
• Bone Characteristics:
o Relatively low bone density and soft bones.
o The epiphysis (growth plate) is in an active period.
o The degree of calcification is not yet complete.
o The connections between bones are relatively loose.
2. Characteristics of the Muscular and Ligamentous System
• Muscle Development:
o The number of muscle fibers continues to increase.
o Muscle strength gradually increases.
o Muscle endurance is still developing.
o Muscle coordination needs training.
• Ligament Characteristics:
o Good elasticity but insufficient strength.
o Weak ligament attachment points.
o Relatively poor stability.
o Strong adaptability but prone to damage.
3. Characteristics of Arch Development
• Development Stages:
o 0 - 2 years old: Physiological flat feet.
o 2 - 6 years old: The arch begins to form.
o 6 - 12 years old: The arch gradually takes shape.
o 12 - 18 years old: The arch continues to improve.
• Particularities:
o Large individual differences in arch height.
o Strong adjustability during the development process.
o Significant influence of external factors.
o Require moderate support and exercise.
4. Characteristics of the Nervous System
• Proprioception:
o Perceptual ability continues to develop.
o Balance ability gradually improves.
o Coordination needs training.
o Reaction speed continues to increase.
• Motor Control:
o Fine motor control ability is developing.
o Movement patterns are not yet fixed.
o Strong adaptability.
o Outstanding learning ability.
III. Problems That Premature Use of Carbon - Plated Running Shoes May Bring
1. Restricted Foot Muscle Development
The high - level support of the carbon plate reduces the natural movement of foot muscles, which may lead to insufficient development of intrinsic muscles and affect the formation of the natural mechanical structure of the foot.
2. Poor Arch Development
Excessive support may interfere with the natural formation of the arch, affect the cushioning and adaptability of the foot, and increase the risk of future foot problems.
3. Decline in Motor Perception Ability
It reduces the natural perception of the foot on the ground, affects the development of balance ability, and may affect motor coordination.
IV. Suggestions for Appropriate - Age Use
1. Age Suggestion
Use with caution under 18 years old. It is recommended to wait until the foot development is basically completed before considering it.
2. Frequency of Use
Even if the appropriate age is reached, long - term daily use is not recommended. It can be used moderately in specific competitions or training.
3. Gradual Adaptation
Transition from traditional running shoes, gradually adapt, pay attention to observing the body's reaction, and reasonably arrange the use time.
V. Suggestions for Scientific Shoe Selection
1. Preschool Age (3 - 6 years old)
The focus is to protect the natural development of the foot, avoid excessive support and restriction, and pay attention to bare - foot activities. The shoes should have a soft and elastic sole, be lightweight, breathable, and have enough space for movement.
2. School - Age (7 - 12 years old)
Pay attention to arch development, strengthen basic physical fitness, and cultivate sports habits. The shoes should have moderate shock - absorbing function, medium - level support strength, be wear - resistant and anti - slip, and conform to the characteristics of foot shape development.
3. Adolescence (13 - 18 years old)
Pay attention to load - bearing protection, balance exercise intensity, and prevent sports injuries. At this age, sports shoes that can provide necessary protection and relevant professional performance can be selected according to actual needs. Individual differences should also be considered, such as the arch and forefoot width of the child. However, even at this age, it is recommended to avoid wearing carbon - plated running shoes for a long time, especially as commuting shoes, unless it is for competitions or professional training.
Carbon - plated running shoes are indeed an excellent sports technology innovation, but it is not "the earlier the better". For teenagers, protecting the natural development of the foot is the most important. It is recommended that parents choose sports shoes for their children based on scientific development laws to let their children's feet grow healthily in the best environment.
