Free Workshops
2026 Free Workshop Series Schedule
Workshops will be held in a separate meeting room from the exhibition hall.
Entrance is free to all general admission ticket holders on a first come, first served basis until the room meets capacity.
*Check back later for a more detailed schedule
Saturday May 16, 2026
Presenter: Jae Gruenke - The Balanced Runner
Title: Head to Foot
The way you carry and move your head either limits or liberates your feet. Learn how to improve your posture in a movement-specific way to reduce plantar and achilles stress, improve arch and big toe function, and build balanced forefoot strength in walking and running.
End Time: 11:30
Presenter: Dr. Jen Perez - Gait Happens
Title: From the Ground Up: A Movement Exploration
End Time: 12:10
Presenter: The Foot Collective
Title:
End Time: 12:50
Presenter: Dr. Emily Splichal - Naboso Technology
Title:
End Time: 2:10
Presenter: Sean Haber - The Barefoot Shoe Review & Jon Carrabino - LevelUp Training
Title: Barefoot Performance from the Ground Up
End Time: 3:30
Presenter: Uwe Mester | QOR360 & Vermont Feldenkrais
Title: Unlock Your Foot's Full Potential
End Time: 4:10
Presenter: Anya | Anya's Reviews
Title: Q&A: Answering your most common barefoot shoe questions
End Time: TBD
Sunday May 17, 2026
Presenter: Jae Gruenke - The Balanced Runner
Title: Head to Foot
The way you carry and move your head either limits or liberates your feet. Learn how to improve your posture in a movement-specific way to reduce plantar and achilles stress, improve arch and big toe function, and build balanced forefoot strength in walking and running.
End Time: 11:30
Presenter: Tyler Benner - Strong Feet Athletics
Title: Optimizing Toe Alignment, Dexterity, and Function for Athletics and Longevity
A perspective from Archery, Running, Cycling, Tennis, and Baseball - what it means for athletes young and old.
End Time: 12:10
Presenter: Turner Osler - QOR360
Title: The Perils of Passive Sitting
End Time: 12:50
Presenter: Dr. Emily Splichal - Naboso Technology
Title:
End Time: 1:30
Presenter: Sean Haber - The Barefoot Shoe Review & Jon Carrabino - LevelUp Training
Title: Barefoot Performance from the Ground Up
End Time: 2:30
Presenter: Dr. Jen Perez - Gait Happens
Title: From the Ground Up: A Movement Exploration
End Time: 3:10
Presenter: The Foot Collective
Title: TBD
End Time: 3:50
Presenter: Anya | Anya's Reviews
Title: Q&A: Answering your most common barefoot shoe questions
End Time: TBD
Frequently asked questions
Hear From Past Workshop Attendees:
"I attended the expo to try on new styles and brands in person so I could order in the future knowing my size. The expo had so much more! I ended up discovering new brands, new styles and products to help with foot health. When I managed to get away from shopping for a workshop, it was fantastic with exercises I could take back home."
"It was incredible to see how many attendees were there and to see the power of our collective investment in the vendors. The entire experience was uplifting, educational, and fun."
"When I learned about the Chicago expo, I booked immediately! The atmosphere was vibrant and the workshops and booths were so accessible. It catered to both newcomers and long-time barefoot enthusiasts. Friends on different parts of their barefoot journey came with me, and everyone had a fantastic time. I can’t wait for next year’s event!"
"I’m someone who researches every barefoot brand’s site but hesitates to buy because of sizing uncertainties—mistakes can be costly. This expo was a dream come true! I got to try on nearly every brand present. Now, I know my favorites for fit, quality, and construction, and I have notes to make future purchases easier. Thank you!"
"The expo was an incredible opportunity to explore and learn about a wide variety of barefoot shoe brands, products, and educational tools, while also gaining insights from experts in several informative workshops. Meeting like-minded people and seeing the latest in barefoot living made the experience unforgettable!"