Hello everyone! So, I've been at this barefoot/minimalist thing for about 6 months, with fewer injuries, and I feel like I'm getting the hang of it. However, the place where my form completely falls apart is: going downhill! On a gradual downhill, I can just lean forward and let my regular form carry me down the hill. But I don't know what to do with a steep downhill, and I have a lot of steep hills where I live. These hills are mostly paved, and a few with dirt/gravel roads. I'm running a mixture of barefoot, VFF's and Neo Trails, more time in shoes now that the weather is getting colder.
Here's what I've tried so far, and maybe the experienced "downhillers" can weigh in on these options:
#1 Chi Running recommends this run-walk shuffle thing. Hard to describe. Low impact, but feels slow and awkward.
#2 Continue forefoot or midfoot landing. This feels right, but on a steep downhill, I'm often landing with my foot out in front, in a plantar-flexed position, which puts a lot of stress on the foot.
#3 Angle my feet for a slight side-step approach, maybe 30-45deg angle from straight down the hill. This feels easiest of all, but I'm worried about putting lateral stress on the ankles.
#4 ????
Thanks, and I look forward to your collective wisdom!
Here's what I've tried so far, and maybe the experienced "downhillers" can weigh in on these options:
#1 Chi Running recommends this run-walk shuffle thing. Hard to describe. Low impact, but feels slow and awkward.
#2 Continue forefoot or midfoot landing. This feels right, but on a steep downhill, I'm often landing with my foot out in front, in a plantar-flexed position, which puts a lot of stress on the foot.
#3 Angle my feet for a slight side-step approach, maybe 30-45deg angle from straight down the hill. This feels easiest of all, but I'm worried about putting lateral stress on the ankles.
#4 ????
Thanks, and I look forward to your collective wisdom!