Barefoot Running

Photo credit:  http://www.usoutdoor.com/vibram-fivefingers/vibram-fivefingers-treksport-multisport-sandals-womens/
 

I purchased the shoes above, the Vibram Five Finger Treksport Sandal, for my Monster Dash.  The intent was to look like I had flippers on (of course, my co-worker had an even better idea that was way less expensive).  You would've thought that I did my research first before buying, but nope. After I got the shoes, I did my research on barefoot running and "minimalist" shoes.

 

I read a lot and learned some valuable information.  Barefoot running may not be for everyone, but the research seems pretty impressive.  I won't go into all of the science behind barefoot running, but I will highlight some of the things I found very exciting.  For example, when one runs barefoot, it's the forefoot, not her heel that strikes the ground.  Also, the human foot is an anatomical masterpiece and all the cushioning found in modern shoes may be turning some of our feet/leg muscles into mush.  What really got my interest was that barefoot running minimizes or reduces the impact to knees and hips.  Although my hip isn't hurting as much as before, it still gets sore after a run.  At the same time, I'm also worried about getting arthritis in my hip as I age.

With the hope of reducing the pain in my hip, I'm going to embark on a journey to find out if barefoot running and minimalist shoes are helpful.  If this type of running, and even walking, style helps my hip, I will change my entire lifestyle.  I hope to keep you updated.

If you want to find out more about barefoot running, please check out these websites:

http://www.builtlean.com/2012/10/17/vibram-five-fingers-review/
http://runbare.com/389/new-study-by-dr-daniel-lieberman-on-barefoot-running-makes-cover-story-in-nature-journal
http://www.runnersworld.com/running-shoe-reviews/less-more