But without them, where would our smug sense of superiority be directed? I kid, I kid. I agree with this, and as a currently shod runner, I try to both run in the principles of barefoot-style (often confused with Shaolin, or even Monkey style) as much as is possible. The shoes do add a degree of challenge at times, particularly when fatigued, but I try to be an example of a better way to use the body as a runner for those around me.
It's kind of funny. I haven't run barefoot in 9 or 10 months now but most of my non-close friends and acquaintances identify me as 'the barefoot running guy' and ask me form questions all the time. Scary, I know. But, they all know I had a lot of success with the FORM of bfr before i got hurt and have carried it over to shoerunnin'.
The wide world of runners, just out there plodding (couldn't resist) along could stand to do more than 'just run.' Maybe when it comes to barefoot running the 'just run' approach has better results because the body is self limiting to a degree and will teach its lessons in a snap (TMTS, anyone? c,mon Lee, Nick...raise those hands...mine is up for sure). But, and I think Nick and Gentile could back me on this, once you get the feel for what your body is doing, even just a bit, it becomes easier to 'just run' with improved results.
But I'm a bg mouthed know nothin', so don't trust my word on this stuff. I am working on my Chi-drinking certification, though. I can coach that...