Just got back from running a 1.2 mile loop at Al Lopez Park. When I started, I met a guy named Rich running in VFFs and he asked if he could run with me because I was running barefoot. Well the concrete on this loop is kind of rough and it's wet from all the rain so I was really paying attention to my form and keeping my speed around a 10:30 pace. Run with Rich I never really stopped and he was a good pacer for me even after he had already ran almost 4 miles. Well after my original one loop I was going to run I felt good still and decided to run another loop and let me say...I am glad I did. I felt great, my feet started to burn at a quarter of the way through the second loop so I started paying attention to my form even more and it helped me push on and when I came across a puddle I intentionally ran through it. This helped me reach my new PR of 2.3 miles. Something I've honestly never even done shod and honestly if my feet weren't burning and I knew my feet could handle more pounding I felt like I could've done 1 or even 2 more loops no problem. Now I had a great time today but running through the big puddles helped me realize something that is actually good practice for technique. You see I realized running through the deeper puddles that were 1-2 inches deep caused me to instead of pulling my legs back like I would before I was literaly just lifting straight up just so my feet wouldnt drag. It was actually great practice and helped my technique which in turn is a reason my feet burn less than they did after the run on Bayshore. All in all, I had a great run and I'm ecstatic right now. Feet feel great and other than the slight ball of foot burn...NO PAIN!!!
Sounds like a good run & VFF partner, Josh! Personally, I love running in the rain, through puddles - as long as I can see the ground - and especially on trails. Chip seal has been my best teacher thus far re lifting off vs. pushing off. However, I feel I need to run more on pavement b/c I notice I get lazy & start dragging my feet. Probably b/c road running is way too boring for me. See you around! Cheers, Julie
Julie I agree road running is boring...I was actually going to run the trail at the park until I saw the VFF runner and decided one loop around the pavement would be good enough (as you can see...it wasn't) lol I figured if I caught up to the guy I would see if we could run but he saw me and actually slowed down haha.
Josh, Sounds like you had a great experience! I'm glad you were able to expand your distance. Did you invite Rich to join us? Whether he is running barefoot or in VFFs he would be a good candidate for the Chapter. Keep It Bare, Warren
EPIC WIN, man! Glad to hear you're in no pain because that's where it's at. Puddles are fun fun fun! Say what you will about running on the road... it's never boring to me. There's always interesting terrain to navigate, curbs and cracks and sticks and stones and the detritus of humanity. I'm not saying road running is anywhere near the thrill of trails, just that concrete has its benefits, biggest of which is, it's right outside my door!
