All the rage in the running community is barefoot running, or the closest thing to it which still protects your feet--running in Vibram FiveFingers. I finally caught the rage and got my own pair. Just took them for my first test run...all of about 2 minutes, on the street at 9:30 PM with Sandman off-leash. I admit I am being a bit anal about the breaking-in period, which I've heard to be fastidious about, but I also just got around to running with them since I've been working nearly all night. (Ok, so I took an hour to recover on facebook (from work, not from working out) , but it's less calories than beer). I hear your calves and butt really need a breaking-in period, so I've been walking around in them for a few days, and now was my first attempt at running.
I'm going to start using them at the gym before I even attempt a real outdoor run in them. Frankly, the thought of having them on at the gym is a little embarassing since they are so ugly and I really don't want to have to talk to everyone who asks me about them. I will wait to run in any real way until after my 22 miler on Saturday, as I don't want to do anything weird to my legs before what will be my training run...wish me luck!
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I'm not using them in the marathon as I have only progressed up to 1 hour in them before the calves start cramping. Going to take a little more time than I thought.
ReplyDeleteAwesome, I've been waiting for a Vibram update. I did not know about the break-in period. I hope you post more about them as you work up to wearing them more. I have a pair on my Wish List for walking on the beach.
ReplyDeleteY'know, I bet they are not so ugly - perhaps even CUTE- in your tiny size :)
1 hour in them??? That is great progress! I can only hope to get that far in 6 months. I'm a wuss...
ReplyDeleteTasha, yes, for running there is a break-in period because it changes your gait and stride so much and puts so much more stress on your calves and butt. I've also heard about people getting stress fractures in their feet because their feet are not strong enough because they've been overly cushioned by traditional running shoes. What type do you want? I have the Sprint, but the KSO look nice too (Keep stuff out).
ReplyDeleteYes, can't wait to hear how these work out. I think I have told you that I love my Nike Frees - I bet the Vibrams are even better. I'm sure it takes awhile to adjust, but I'll bet they'll provide some good variety for your shorter runs, and help you develop greater strength. I think that a flexible sole makes for some really fun running!
ReplyDeleteNote: I ran in mine over the weekend in the grass. I had to keep stopping and pick the dandelions out from in between my toes.
ReplyDeleteOoh, Kelly, I'd love to hear more from you about the Nike frees. I considered starting with them, but I really don't like buying Nike's so I went straight to Vibrams.
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