To understand someone better, it is said that we need to walk a mile in their shoes.

This is perhaps a little extreme but as with many statements, there is a lot of truth buried in there.

Walking in their shoes, or at least picking them up and looking closely at the wear patterns, both inside and out, will tell you much about the person’s interaction with the world. Do they currently have a prescription orthotic, or some form of insole? How has the outsole worn? Are both sides worn in the same way? Can you see the way the foot turns and loads inside the shoe?

By observing and considering the information provided, it can be possible to start gaining a better insight into how the person moves and hence any potential issues they may be adapting for.

If necessary, stand up and attempt to physically mimic their movement, and what leads them to that positioning.

Feeling it in your own body can be an eye opening experience and one that may hugely enhance your own practice.