Hi everyone! I'm a new barefoot runner from Lakewood, OH. I've been running ever since 7th grade but just recently got into minimalist running. My fiance got me a pair of VFFs for my birthday and I love them. Now I'm looking to transition those VFF miles into barefoot miles. Yesterday I ran barefoot outside for the first time, just 0.32 miles but at least it's a start. My goal is to run a 5k barefoot next summer!
Sounds like you're starting the right way - take your time and build up the soles. Your VFF running (and your youthfulness) should have already provided some internal foot strengthening of the muscles and connecting tissues that give us old folks problems after decades of atrophy in shoes. I think you'll enjoy BF far more than minimal (I certainly have come to love it), although minimal shoes are great as tools when weather or terrain just won't prudently allow BF.
Welcome! It's not right next to Lakewood, but when visiting my in-laws we often run on the Mill Stream and Big Creek trail systems (mostly in Middleburg Heights & Strongsville). Very nice paved bike paths, the pavement is a little rough in some spots but that will be good practice for a barefoot runner!
Chuck-
I know the trails you're talking about. I think I might try running on the bike path in the Rocky River Reservation. It's the same sort of path and it's all part of the same trail system but this one's a bit closer to home.
