Founders Story – Dr. Emily Splichal with Naboso
Dr. Emily Splichal: Revolutionizing Fitness Through Barefoot Science and Sensory Stimulation
Dr. Emily Splichal’s journey in fitness and podiatry is one of innovation, determination, and an unwavering belief in the power of human movement. As a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), and Movement Specialist, she has spent her career reshaping how people think about foot function, barefoot science, and overall movement longevity.
Her work has been particularly groundbreaking in the field of barefoot training, a concept that emphasizes the importance of foot activation and sensory stimulation to enhance stability, strength, and injury prevention. This passion led her to found Naboso, a pioneering company dedicated to optimizing movement through textured insoles, mats, and sensory-based products designed to stimulate the nervous system from the ground up.
From Medicine to Movement
Dr. Splichal’s journey began in podiatry, where she treated countless patients struggling with foot pain, instability, and movement dysfunction. Early on, she recognized a gap in traditional medicine and rehabilitation—while many professionals focused on muscles and mechanics, few considered the sensory role of the foot in movement. Inspired by her studies in neuroscience and human movement, she delved into barefoot science, realizing that optimal performance starts with a strong foot-to-ground connection.
Understanding that exteroception—the body’s ability to sense its position in space—starts in the soles of the feet, she began integrating barefoot training principles into her work. She trained professional athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and rehab patients using sensory-rich techniques that strengthened the foot’s natural function, ultimately improving balance, posture, and movement efficiency.
The Birth of Naboso: A Sensory Revolution
Through years of research, Dr. Splichal saw an opportunity to bridge the gap between podiatry, fitness, and neurology. She knew that textured surfaces could stimulate the nervous system in ways traditional footwear and training methods could not. In 2017, she founded Naboso (which means “barefoot” in Czech), introducing a line of products designed to enhance foot activation, neurological stimulation, and overall movement quality.
Naboso’s proprietary textured insoles, socks and foot health accessories use specific patterns and densities to trigger mechanoreceptors in the feet, boosting foot strength, reducing fatigue, and improving sensory awareness. Athletes use Naboso to enhance performance, while individuals with neurological conditions—such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease—experience improved movement confidence and stability.
Impacting the Fitness Industry and Beyond
Dr. Splichal’s work has influenced trainers, therapists, and athletes worldwide, reshaping the way the fitness industry views foot health and movement. She has spoken on global stages, educating professionals about sensory science, foot mechanics, and neuromuscular activation. Her methods have been integrated into rehab programs, strength training protocols, and even corporate wellness initiatives aimed at reducing foot fatigue and improving workplace ergonomics.
Her contributions have not only elevated barefoot training as a mainstream practice but have also sparked a movement that blends science, wellness, and innovation. Naboso continues to expand, helping people regain confidence in their movement—whether they are elite athletes, weekend warriors, or individuals overcoming neurological challenges.
A Legacy of Movement
Dr. Emily Splichal’s impact is more than just about feet—it’s about empowering movement, enhancing longevity, and unlocking the body’s full potential. Through Naboso, she has turned a simple yet profound concept into a global movement revolution, proving that true strength begins from the ground up.
Her story is a testament to the power of innovation, research, and an unshakable belief in challenging conventional wisdom. As the fitness industry continues to evolve, one thing remains clear—Dr. Splichal has forever changed the way we move, one step at a time.
