Arch stabilization

The foot has three arches: two longitudinal (medial and lateral) arches and one anterior transverse arch. These arches are formed by the tarsal and metatarsal bones and are supported by the ligaments and tendons in the foot.
The arches shape is designed in a similar manner to spring; bears the weight of the body and absorbs the shock that is produced with locomotion. The foot's flexibility conferred by the arches is what facilitates everyday loco-motor functions such as walking and sprinting. The energy-sparing spring theory of the foot’s arch has become central to interpretations of the foot’s mechanical function and evolution. The metabolic energy saved by the arch is largely explained by the passive-elastic work it supplies that would otherwise be done by active muscle.