Barefoot Runners

[Brandon Enos]

As some of you know from my previous posts I am training for a sheriff academy that involves lots of running.

Ive been reading a lot about barefoot running, hiking, etc and how good it is for you. My question is, should I bother? If I got used to running barefoot now, would it transfer over in the academy when Im not barefoot? I found out that in the academy they require shoes and then eventually boots for all exercise. So maybe I should just wear shoes and maybe eventually boots to learn proper form in footwear versus learning it barefoot.

Anyone who trains in barefoot running have any ideas?

Thanks

[Camille Lore]

I feel like barefoot/Vibram Five Fingers running has helped my running form. Not that I'm good, but it certainly feels more natural now.

[Darryl Shaw]

It takes a while to get used to running in boots due to their weight and the reduced ankle mobility so if you're going to be required to run in them you might as well start getting used to them now. Make sure you start off with short runs though, preferably off road, as the change in gait almost guarentees shin splints and blisters if you do too much too soon.

http://www.posetech.com/training/archives/000469.html

[Chad Cilli]

Brandon, I was training to prepare for the military and I was advised by many people not to run in boots on a regular basis. Yes, you should do it once in a while to get used to it because it is something you'll need to get used to, but if you do it as your usual choice of footwear, you may cause more harm than good.

I'm an advocate of barefoot running. For starters, it makes learning to run pose much easier because you don't have a big cushioned heal clipping the ground. Personally, I had rather flat feet and I overpronated quite a bit. Once I started running barefoot, my arch actually developed, and I don't overpronate nearly as much as I used to. I think my feet are much stronger now.

Before you start though, big warning, start light. When I first got my five fingers I was so pumped I went out and ran a 5K. I couldn't walk right for the rest of the week. So start off very light, lighter than you think is light. Good luck with your training!

[John Vernon]

i don't know if you're near the beach but if you are just run barefoot on the sand. that'll get your feet in good shape. closer to the tide as first then after awhile you can move a little further away to the slightly softer stuff. if no beach just go to the park. sprints in the soft sand after awhile will help with lower leg conditioning.

same thing w/ the 5 fingers, start slow. I used to live in San Diego and my first beach run was about 5 miles farther than the original 1 that I planned on running just because of the scenery. feet were definitely tender for a few days after that.

good luck.