Marathon

thomaslp

Barefooters
Apr 13, 2011
12
0
1
Hi,

I started running BF 4 weeks ago. I just did my first 5K running in VFF :)

My main goal is to complete Berlin Marathon in September. I was wondering what distances you are running when preparing for a barefoot marathon? Should I just follow a "normal" marathon program?

/Thomas
 
I am completely and utterly

I am completely and utterly unqualified to answer your question, but I'll give you my honest and frank opinion: that's too soon. I was 'tempted' in the beginning of my running experience to participate in a HALF marathon four months away and I 'followed a program' that increased my mileage way too fast and I got injured. I took off MONTHS and still had knee issues, which is how I came to BFR.

My advice if you want to run more than just one marathon -- plan on NEXT September's marathon and get some more miles under your belt, including some shorter distance races. If you RUSH your progress to meet the deadline, I fear you'll greatly increase your odds of injury (and thus failure.)

Believe me, I have no interest in discouraging you, only in helping you achieve your goal without injury. I'm interested in what the experienced have to say, and in any case, I wish you luck!
 
Hi,thank you for the quick

Hi,

thank you for the quick reply. Unfortunately I have a problem taking it slow......I simply can't :)

One thing that I should have added to my post is that I started running in VFF 4 weeks ago. But I have been running 3 times per week in regular running shoess for a few years (30-40 km per week). Last year I completed 5 half marathons - best time 1:45 :).

Unfortunately I have been having some sciatic issues for the last 5 months. That is why I started running in VFF. After 4 weeks I feel that my sciatic pain is reduced remarkably :)

So I have been preparing for the full maraton for a long time. Right now my big question is if I should go all in with the VFF or if I should continue using my shoes :~

I would really like to hear form others who have completed a barefoot or VFF marathon:
  • for how long did you prepare
  • how many km/miles did you run per week
  • how long was the longest runs
  • etc.
I noticed that when I run in VFF I automatically runs a lot faster 4:40 minutes per km. When wearing shoes i normally run 5:15 minutes per km. When I force myself to slow down I have much more energy during and after the run. So I have been thinking if the long 25 km and 30 km runs really are nessacery when preparing in VFF?



/Thomas
 
Ok here's my opinion:

Ok here's my opinion: possible, but too soon.

Here's why I think that: it's good that you've been running for a while, which is why I say "possible". You may be able to adjust your gait and strengthen your feet in time for that. However, I am about to do my first marathon barefoot, and have basically been redlining it injury-wise through the entire training plan, which has been 5 months long (you have 4 months to prepare for a September race).

Now a big difference is I haven't been running as long as you, so I'm not sure how much stronger your feet/ankles/etc. are than mine were when I started, but I can tell you from experience that you will reach a point where you will discover a weak link (mine has been my ankles), and 4 months will not be enough time to strengthen your weak link (whatever it might be) to the point where a marathon will be comfortable.

After 7 months BF/Min my ankles are comfortable through about 16-18 miles and then they get a bit stiff/sore, but not to the point where I can't keep running. The only reason I'm pushing past that is because it's an inaugural marathon (I reall want to be part o the 1st ever Kalamazoo marathon) and the local newspaper has been following my progress. I'll be bringing along some cushioned trainers as an emergency 'chute for the last few miles, but I won't use them unless I absolutely have to.

So long story short: based on my experience I would strongly suggest aiming for a half if you plan on doing it BF/VFF and then aim for a full in the spring.

Edit: just wanted to add that when I first signed up for the marathon I asked a similar question. Everyone suggested aiming for a half instead. I didn't follow that advice, which I freely admit wasn't the wise choice. Not that the experience hasn't been rewarding, but I know this was a dangerous decision on my part. So as one person in a hurry to another, please consider slowing down a bit. :)
 
Build mileage first.  I would

Build mileage first. I would work up to running between 28-30 mpw for at least a month, then assist your goals for the marathon. I would do a half marathon first. I won't judge people's capabilties though, once you build mileage and do s some long runs anywhere from 15-20 miles, you might be good to go.
 
My program is this:I started

My program is this:

I started running barefoot last summer. I did a barefoot 5K last fall. I'm doing a 10K this spring since I'm up to 7 milers barefoot now. I'm aiming at a 1/2 marathon THIS fall. I think I'll be ready for a full marathon either next summer (2012) or the fall of that year.

However, there are plenty of folks who run marathons after 6 months to a year of barefoot training. It all depends on your body. Take care and listen to those aches and pains. I wouldn't pay the entry fee until you're confident you will be injury free.

That's all I got!
 
Hi,thank you for all your

Hi,

thank you for all your input. I have been giving your comments quite some thoughts. My conclustion is that I should not be too optimistic in running a full marathon in September this year. I will try to reach the Berlin Marathon in September 2011, but I will also listen to my body during my weekly training, because i do not want to struggle with another injury.

/Thomas
 
good for you Mike

good for you



Mike