Barefootin'

If you are a runner, you probably have a pet injury that just won't go away. For me, the past few years were plagued with foot numbness. I toyed with various arch supports, loosened my laces, splurged on fancy running shoeand read a books to improve my stride. Never-the-less, the numbness still crept in during a run or a bike ride. I suspected it was due to a flat foot or bad arches, but after a few visits I learned that my foot was not flat, but the arches may be a little weak. My doc would ramble on about Kenyans who run barefoot and never have any problems and suggested that my shoes were perhaps TOO soft. I've been running for most of my life and have watched shoes go from flat-soled Chuck Taylors to space-aged ultra-comfort shoes with fancy dual-compound soles and elaborate arch support systems. Seriously, must shoes be so complex as to require systems.

Then a new running buddy told me about Vibram's Five-Fingered shoes that were the adopted by a running sub-culture known for barefoot running. You remember Zola Budd? There was something very primal about running barefoot and it made a lot of sense. The fancy high-tech shoes I'd been wearing were nothing more than crutches and they turning me into a cripple. Furthermore, they provided so much coushin that my technique became sloppy and produced more inpact on my knees, back and hips. I didn't want to be one of those titanium knee guys who can run ever again, so barefoot shoes looked like a solution.

Ok, so they're just as expensive as decent running shoes and take a little getting used to. Running barefoot requires you to step more gingerly and let the majority of your foot absorb the impact. It's almost like you're prancing because you must develop a more gentle touch on the ground. Barefoot running really works your calves though. It might be a problem with my technique, but more likely due to muscles weakened by over-designed shoes. I wouldn't recommend running on pavement at first, but trails and a rubber track are prefect. And take it slow to gradually build the muscles required for barefoot running. My calves are still aching!

I haven't seen the Vibrams in any stores, and only worn by one other runner in the few months since discovering them. But they are are easy to purchase on www.vibramfivefingers.com and be sure to use their sizing chart for a perfect fit. They should fit like a glove so don't just order what you think is your size - measure twice buy once.

There are many other great uses for these shoes from watersports to climbing, trekking, chi running and I think they would be a great martial arts shoe for training outdoors. They feel so good on your feet and its liberating to run uninhibited down the forest path like a wild animal.

Cool Runnings in China Camp

Whew that was a great run! I did the 20k at China Camp put on by Envirosports and really surprised myself with time of 1:27. I don't know if I've ever run a 7 minute mile, let alone 12 of them! I must have really flown down the hills and made up time because half of this run is uphill. Maybe I can chalk it up to a concept called Chi Running that I've been researching lately. But more likely the thrill of racing and running through the woods like a wild animal that took hold of me! I may be a little old to be getting into the racing game, but I had so much fun and really just enjoyed the thrill of the run. The other racers are very cool and you could feel the aire of commeradery in the finish area. Envirosports did another great job with this race. Thanks Dave, my legs still hurt!