Premium workshops are separately ticketed events within the Expo. They are longer length and attendance capped to ensure all attendees enjoy a more intimate setting. Each workshop start time requires its own individual ticket and entrance to any premium workshop requires an Expo general admission ticket purchased separately.
Free workshops are open to anyone that has entered the expo hall with a general admission ticket. Free workshop access is on a first come, first served basis until the room reaches capacity.
Katy Bowman, M.S. is a biomechanist, bestselling author, and founder of Nutritious Movement. She teaches movement globally and in addition to writing the first books on transitioning to minimal footwear, Whole Body Barefoot and Simple Steps to Foot Pain Relief, she has also highlighted the importance of a diverse "movement diet" in the groundbreaking books Move Your DNA and My Perfect Movement Plan. Named one of Maria Shriver’s “Architects of Change,” Bowman’s work has been featured by The TODAY Show, NPR, New York Times, and numerous other national and international media. She is also the host of the Move Your DNA podcast @nutritiousmovement.
Come dressed in movement-friendly clothing. Exercises will be both standing and lying down; chair option modifications will be available.
Please bring a strap or belt, or bag with a long, strong strap/handle!
Activities can be modified to accommodate varying abilities. Exercises will be both standing and lying down, but chair option modifications will also be available.
Premium Workshop Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Contact us at info@barefootshoeexpo.com to request a cancellation and refund of your order.
Refund requests must be sent no later than 24 hours before the start of the expo.
Premium workshops are repeated on both Expo days.
Each premium workshop start time requires its own separate ticket. Purchasing a ticket for the first day does not provide entrance to the same workshop on the following day.
Premium workshop attendance is capped to ensure everyone has a good experience. There will be no additional workshop opportunities beyond the dates and times listed on this website. We recommend purchasing your tickets early.
Haven't Got Your General Admission Tickets Yet?
Hear From Attendees of the 2024 Chicago Expo Workshops:
"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!"
"Anya’s Barefoot Shoe Expo was a highlight of my year. As a barefoot shoe consumer, I loved experiencing so many shoes and foot-first products in person. It created a much-needed level of accessibility. Meeting the educators and colleagues I admire was a dream come true. I’m beyond grateful and excited for future expos!"
"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!"
"As silly as it sounds to most people, barefoot shoes and the lifestyle/movement principles taught by Katy Bowman and others have changed my life. Having the chance to meet Anya, who I have followed for years, as well as many others in the barefoot shoe world was a great experience! And all the shoes! The Chicago Expo was incredible!"
"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!"