I went for a run today. Barefoot.

It all started last week when I was out on the trail, and my lower legs were hurting like a beyotch. For some reason, I got the urge to take my shoes off & see if maybe it would give me some relief (usually sore lower legs are caused by overstride and a heavy heel strike). Lo and behold- though it was a bit slow going and I did step on a few slightly painful rocks/sticks, overall, it made my feet & legs feel wonderful!

So, I do some googling the next day and discover that barefoot running has quite the cult following. Testimonials claim that it solves a multitude of problems by improving the stride and strengthening the foot. It’s not like they’re selling anything, so I assume they’re telling the truth :D I’m convinced it’s worth a shot- people have run 100 mile ultramarathons with little to no footcover.
I also discovered the Vibram 5-Fingers shoe, which a lot of barefooters use as an excuse for shoes in everyday life and/or running in areas where bare feet may not be ideal. I ordered a pair, and they came in today. However, even though I measured according to Vibram’s site, they’re way too big for me, and I’m going to have to return them.

Today I had planned to run in the 5-fingers, but since they didn’t work out, I just went for it barefoot. I did, however, carry a pair of shoes with me just in case I got to a section of road or trail that would hurt to run over. Good thing, too, because the trail I ran to from my house, though short, was pretty gravelly, and I ended up slipping my shoes on for the length of it. All in all, I probably ran 3 or 4 miles. How do I feel? Well, this is the first time I’ve run lately with absolutely NO lower leg pain. I have a couple of blisters on my toes, and the skin on the bottom of my feet is a little tender, but, all in all, no worse for wear. I’m pretty stoked. I’m looking forward to toughening my feet up a bit & getting over the “blister” stage. Updates to follow!