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.
James Earls is a writer, lecturer and bodyworker specialising in myofascial release and functional anatomy. Renowned for his relaxed and humorous style, James is a popular presenter whose subject appeals to a wide-ranging audience.
Increasing the understanding and practice of manual therapy has been a passion of James’ since he first started practicing bodywork over 30 years ago. Combining his interests in comparative anatomy and evolution culminated in the publication of ‘Born to Walk: Myofascial Efficiency and the Body in Movement’. His book synthesises a wealth of research and experience on gait and movement and he has since published further titles including ‘Understanding the Human Foot’, and ‘Functional Anatomy of Movement’.
The workshop will be a mix of lecture-style and movement examples but nothing more vigorous than going for a walk. Participants will occasionally be asked to stand up. However, the major principles of a number of exercise explorations equally apply to anyone with mobility issues as they address how movement passes through the whole body. Exercises can be performed sitting or lying.
Participants will occasionally be asked to stand up. However, the major principles of a number of exercise explorations equally apply to anyone with mobility issues as they address how movement passes through the whole body. Exercises can be performed sitting or lying.
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.
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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!"