Been lurking a while and just signed up. The info you have all posted has been very helpful and inspiring. So much that I decided to go for it!
Little background: I'm 45 years old. A year ago I ran my first long distance event, IM Cozumel. No tri or marathon experience before but the internet is a wonderful source of knowledge. During my 6 month training I loved the swim and bike but hated the run. I tried 6 pair of shoes and as many techniques as I could find. After numerous injuries and setbacks I settled on Newton shoes which I had to learn to run forefoot. Seemed to do the trick as the injuries stopped popping up but I never liked it. Running was always a chore and I never felt fast or smooth. I finished the race in 12:12 but my run was almost 5 hours. I choked bad.
Fast forward and I am back in training for next years half and full IM in Cozumel. Already dreading my run training I started searching for answers. Chris McDougal and others started popping up which lead me here. I live a very active outdoor life and have always liked to be barefoot whenever possible. After reading much of the day about the topic I decided to give it a go and did my first BF run 4 days ago. I just listened to my legs and feet and did about 4 miles. They were glorious! The best I have ever felt running ever! Next day I had some odd muscle soreness and 3 tender spots on my soles but nothing major. I have not put shoes on since. I ran 4 miles 2 nights ago with my Newtons. Hated it. I ran 4 miles last night BF again and loved it. May have found the Holy Grail of running for me.
I know I jumped in a little fast at first but I think because I already spent a lot of time BF in regular life it helped me a lot. I am still listening and feeling everything and at the first sign of pain I will stop and rest. My feet actually feel better running than walking BF.
So question: What things should I stay alert for as I build my muscles and foot padding?
I also bought some VFFs but they won't be here for a couple weeks. (supply in Mexico is tough). should I start using them once they arrive or see how it goes naked for a while?
Thank you all for your words of wisdom so far. I think this movement may actually prove that the body was born to run and all the $ thrown at support was a marketing scam for years! the sheep just have to realize they have been taken to slaughter
Little background: I'm 45 years old. A year ago I ran my first long distance event, IM Cozumel. No tri or marathon experience before but the internet is a wonderful source of knowledge. During my 6 month training I loved the swim and bike but hated the run. I tried 6 pair of shoes and as many techniques as I could find. After numerous injuries and setbacks I settled on Newton shoes which I had to learn to run forefoot. Seemed to do the trick as the injuries stopped popping up but I never liked it. Running was always a chore and I never felt fast or smooth. I finished the race in 12:12 but my run was almost 5 hours. I choked bad.
Fast forward and I am back in training for next years half and full IM in Cozumel. Already dreading my run training I started searching for answers. Chris McDougal and others started popping up which lead me here. I live a very active outdoor life and have always liked to be barefoot whenever possible. After reading much of the day about the topic I decided to give it a go and did my first BF run 4 days ago. I just listened to my legs and feet and did about 4 miles. They were glorious! The best I have ever felt running ever! Next day I had some odd muscle soreness and 3 tender spots on my soles but nothing major. I have not put shoes on since. I ran 4 miles 2 nights ago with my Newtons. Hated it. I ran 4 miles last night BF again and loved it. May have found the Holy Grail of running for me.
I know I jumped in a little fast at first but I think because I already spent a lot of time BF in regular life it helped me a lot. I am still listening and feeling everything and at the first sign of pain I will stop and rest. My feet actually feel better running than walking BF.
So question: What things should I stay alert for as I build my muscles and foot padding?
I also bought some VFFs but they won't be here for a couple weeks. (supply in Mexico is tough). should I start using them once they arrive or see how it goes naked for a while?
Thank you all for your words of wisdom so far. I think this movement may actually prove that the body was born to run and all the $ thrown at support was a marketing scam for years! the sheep just have to realize they have been taken to slaughter