The Barefoot Running Book - Jason Robillard [43]
Further, beyond health practitioners, the general population still, for the most part, believes feet need support, stability, and plenty of cushioning. Until people begin having faith in their remarkable, strong, and resilient feet, ankles, and entire lower extremities, and begin asking questions—to themselves, their doctors, and the shoe companies—the medical system and footwear manufacturers will continue to feed them the same information they always have.
Final Thoughts on Barefoot Running
After I read Christopher McDougall’s book, Born to Run, and his account of the Tarahumara Indians who routinely run dozens of miles a day in flimsy sandal-like shoes—without injury—I took the leap from armchair scientist to barefoot runner.
Transitioning from my own custom-made orthotics and expensive running shoes to barefoot was not easy. Back then, I didn’t have this book or any other resource to guide me. It was trial and error, and I did get hurt by doing too much too fast. But, I didn’t give up.
Eventually, I became comfortable running in minimalist shoes, and amazingly, my years of off-and-on heel pain (plantar fasciitis) went away (and to this day, it has not come back!). My feet and ankles are stronger, and, even better, my legs, thighs, and buttocks are leaner and firmer. I have better posture, too.
I love to run and plan to continue running for many, many years … in my minimalist shoes.
By Michael Nirenberg, DPM
www.friendlyfootcare.com and www.americaspodiatrist.com
Running with Others
One of the joys of running comes from the camaraderie of running with other people. The same holds true for barefoot runners though there are a few issues that arise.
Not everyone is barefoot-friendly. It is important to find a running partner or group that is accepting of your running barefoot. Surrounding yourself with negative input and attitudes will only inhibit and sabotage the process of learning. Some people can be very defensive about their decision to run in shoes. Who can blame them? They probably spend hundreds of dollars per year on shoes.
If you run with an overly-negative person or a group with one or two negative people, find new running partners or learn to ignore them. Your success will provide all the ammunition you need to silence their negativity and in my experience is the best way to counter critics.
Pacing is another issue that sometimes arises when you decide to run with others. It is critically important to restrain yourself early in the learning process. By running with another person who is faster or runs longer distances, can dramatically increase the temptation to do too much too soon. If the other person runs faster, I would suggest finding a small loop course such as a high school track for runs. This will allow each of you to run at your own pace while still maintaining some contact.
For those running partners who go longer distances, try running only accompanying them for a portion of their run. Let them start earlier or continue to run longer after you finish. If you are running together for security reasons, a loop course works as a good solution. You can wait for them as they finish the remainder of their run.
The Doubtful Spouse/Partner
I am very lucky because Shelly has always accepted and supported my barefoot running endeavors. Perhaps she instinctively knew I was on the cutting edge of something truly great, or maybe that is what I want to believe. In reality, she probably just chalked it up to my eccentric nature.
Regardless, I have benefitted from her support. Many of the new barefoot runners have not enjoyed that level of understanding. Our spouses can be unwavering pillars that help us reach our potential or can be harsh critics