"Barefoot" running

BobbyDaniel
BobbyDaniel Posts: 1,459 Member
edited November 12 in Fitness and Exercise
OK...any "barefoot" runners out there? I did a trial run in my Saucony Hattori's the other night and my calves are SORE! Any clue how long it will take for me to get used to them?

Replies

  • GoldspursX3
    GoldspursX3 Posts: 516 Member
    I wear "Minimus" brand and it took me almost a month to get used to them.
  • okerachel
    okerachel Posts: 45 Member
    I run barefoot. It really depends but it can take as long as six months to transition "safely." The method I used was increasing the amount of my run that was done in bare feet or minimal shoes but 10% every week. Kind of like when you are increasing mileage. I recommend www.reddit.com/barefootrunning. Its a forum with tons of helpful participants who love to answer questions about barefoot running.
  • Resalyn
    Resalyn Posts: 528 Member
    OK...any "barefoot" runners out there? I did a trial run in my Saucony Hattori's the other night and my calves are SORE! Any clue how long it will take for me to get used to them?

    Hi there - I'm not a runner, but am transitioning to minimalist footwear - and I found the link below helpful.... You can google "transition to barefoot running" and find a ton of information - maybe too much info, LOL. I wear Vibram Fivefingers Bikila LS for my cardio and strength training....

    http://barefootrunning.fas.harvard.edu/5BarefootRunning&TrainingTips.html

    Best of luck to you!
  • Eats_With_A_Fist_Returns
    Eats_With_A_Fist_Returns Posts: 77
    I'm wearing Skechers GoRuns to help me shift to a mid-strike, until I can find a store with some Vibrams so I can get fitted. From everything I've read, you should gradually build up to barefoot to minimize the pain...it takes a while to awaken some of those foot muscles we never really use. That's what I've read anyway. I don't know if I'll ever make it to actual barefoot running, but I can tell a difference since I've started transitioning and I like it so far.

    For a laugh, you should check these out: http://youtu.be/NPdb7ZDJKS4, http://youtu.be/erorsuyJKiQ

    My favorite line is "Running shoes are designed to injure you, it's a conspiracy."
  • BobbyDaniel
    BobbyDaniel Posts: 1,459 Member
    Quick responses, thanks! I transitioned into my Kinvara's pretty quick, but after testing out the Hattori's 2 nights ago I'm walking like Fred Sanford today!
  • notdancinganymore
    notdancinganymore Posts: 57 Member
    I run in Merels. Training for a marathon. But I injured myself a year ago transitioning to fast. Take your time and stretch those tendons!
  • shar140
    shar140 Posts: 1,158 Member
    I've got a pair of vibrams and merrell barefoot (don't remember the style, but it's last year's model. I got all black, without toes, so I can wear them casually when I'm out) - took me at least a month. I started out just walking in them, to get used to it. Yes, there was a lot of days I had sore calves, but I eventually strengthened my legs & feet (well, mostly - my left foot still isn't as strong). I had a couple friends who suggested just walking in them first, to get used to them & strengthen muscles I'm not accustomed to using, before trying to run in them. When I don't heel-strike, my plantar fasciitis isn't as bad, I've noticed.

    Take it slow, and eventually you'll work up to it. And thanks for mentioning Saucony, I didn't know they had barefoot shoes now, too! :)
  • rebeccask
    rebeccask Posts: 140 Member
    What's the benefit to running barefoot or with minimalist shoes? On a run last week, I saw a girl running barefoot on a paved path and thought it looked painful. I don't think I'll ever transition, but I'm curious to know what you think.
  • sunshineshica
    sunshineshica Posts: 277
    What's the benefit to running barefoot or with minimalist shoes? On a run last week, I saw a girl running barefoot on a paved path and thought it looked painful. I don't think I'll ever transition, but I'm curious to know what you think.

    I'm also curious about this. Running outside on raggity cement and bumpy sidewalks with possible piss and dried up poop from people that walk their dogs on the sidewalks in your barefeet seems rough and not sanitary
  • shar140
    shar140 Posts: 1,158 Member
    What's the benefit to running barefoot or with minimalist shoes? On a run last week, I saw a girl running barefoot on a paved path and thought it looked painful. I don't think I'll ever transition, but I'm curious to know what you think.

    I'm also curious about this. Running outside on raggity cement and bumpy sidewalks with possible piss and dried up poop from people that walk their dogs on the sidewalks in your barefeet seems rough and not sanitary

    That's why I opt for minimalist ("barefoot") shoes. For some people (like a good friend of mine), it allieves her knee pain she used to have running (and she's a former track/CC athlete). And, for me they're not just for running. I also like them for hiking, as I can maneuver/flex my foot different in difficult terrain, whereas with a rigid-soled shoe (as most hiking shoes are, exceptionally so, even) I wouldn't be able to do that. It's also strengthened my feet, ankles, calves, etc. I have better balance over wearing a regular shoe, and they double as my weightlifting shoes - squats and lunges are totally different in minimalist shoes than regular ones, as they allow me to hit muscles differently.

    I'll admit it took a while for me to get used to walking on pavement with them, as it is a bit painful at first (after 30+ years of being used to increasingly cushioned shoes).

    and totally OT, there's a banner ad above this with Snickers eggs. Seriously, MFP?!
  • scottb81
    scottb81 Posts: 2,538 Member
    What's the benefit to running barefoot or with minimalist shoes? On a run last week, I saw a girl running barefoot on a paved path and thought it looked painful. I don't think I'll ever transition, but I'm curious to know what you think.
    Once your feet and legs adapt and get strong it is not uncomfortable at all running on pavement and only minimally uncomfortable running on gravel. You get the benefit of strong feet and legs and at least for me, no matter how far or how long I run, knee pain and shin splints are a thing of the past.
  • migoi357
    migoi357 Posts: 173 Member
    There seem to be a ton of 'how to' books on barefoot running out there. There is also a book titled "Born to Run" about barefoot running, ultra distance running, and running ultra distances barefoot.

    It's an interesting read even if you don't intend to ever go naked from the knee down when you run.
  • DrBorkBork
    DrBorkBork Posts: 4,099 Member
    I run in vibram komodos and NEVER want to go back to regular shoes. I adore these things. They fixed my stride and my ACL pain. It takes several months to build up a decent run in them, but I set a PR in the first race I ran in them.
  • gemiwing
    gemiwing Posts: 1,525 Member
    What's the benefit to running barefoot or with minimalist shoes? On a run last week, I saw a girl running barefoot on a paved path and thought it looked painful. I don't think I'll ever transition, but I'm curious to know what you think.

    I'm 260 pounds and can run sans-injury when barefoot. Slap a pair of high cushion shoes on me and I get horrible knee/ankle pains and can't run longer than a minute or two tops. Barefoot or minimal footwear- I can run naturally and don't get tired as often.

    I've also stopped my ankles from rotating outward and walking on the sides of my feet since going barefoot. I love it and cant' wait to lose more weight and do more barefoot walking/ running.
  • raevynn
    raevynn Posts: 666 Member
    It took a solid two months for me to be able to wear my Vibrams (normal daily wear, not running) all day without discomfort from muscles being tweaked.

    This is going to depend on how un-naturally your feet & legs (and glutes) have developed over the years, and how elastic they still are - and how fast your natural adaptability is.

    I use my Vibrams for daily walking, treadmill, and HIIT now, and they are the best. I also do the treadmill and HIIT completely barefoot at times.
  • BanjoKd
    BanjoKd Posts: 150
    I wear Merrell Pace Gloves. I have been wearing them for about 2 months for about 4-6 miles at a time at least once a week....no calf pain for me. I think i could wear them all the time now....but my Brooks are so comfy it's hard to make the switch.
  • enginerd81
    enginerd81 Posts: 50
    What's the benefit to running barefoot or with minimalist shoes? On a run last week, I saw a girl running barefoot on a paved path and thought it looked painful. I don't think I'll ever transition, but I'm curious to know what you think.

    I was in a biomechanics course last year and saw a research presentation on this subject.

    The simplest reason I took away was that with shoes you will land harder on your heal because of the padding.

    This sends alot of force up your leg and joints. By going barefoot/ less padding you change how your run to reduce painful heel strikes. And Therefore less overall forces which results in a healthier long term running strategy.
  • jellybeanhed313
    jellybeanhed313 Posts: 344 Member

    and totally OT, there's a banner ad above this with Snickers eggs. Seriously, MFP?!

    Usually those ad banners are related to websites you have recently visited or things you have googled. Last time I googled sports bras and I have been seeing all bra related ads since.
  • SamiRose
    SamiRose Posts: 118 Member
    There seem to be a ton of 'how to' books on barefoot running out there. There is also a book titled "Born to Run" about barefoot running, ultra distance running, and running ultra distances barefoot.

    It's an interesting read even if you don't intend to ever go naked from the knee down when you run.



    I don't run barefoot, but I have read bits and pieces from Born to Run... EXCELLENT, highly recommend! I'm acutally attending ACSM Northland Spring Conference in Minneapolis MN, next week. There entire conference is on the barefoot running debate. My boyfriend runs with Vibrums...loves them. I recommend buying them from RevelSports.com Great place, family owned out of Central Wisconsin and the people that own it are very knowledgeable and helpful. This family too are avid outdoor enthusiasts.

    :)
  • MarineCodie
    MarineCodie Posts: 256 Member
    6 months for me to be completely pain free in my achilles. TAKE IT SLOW. I run in vibrams, NB minimus and Newtons.
  • SamiRose
    SamiRose Posts: 118 Member
    What's the benefit to running barefoot or with minimalist shoes? On a run last week, I saw a girl running barefoot on a paved path and thought it looked painful. I don't think I'll ever transition, but I'm curious to know what you think.

    I was in a biomechanics course last year and saw a research presentation on this subject.

    The simplest reason I took away was that with shoes you will land harder on your heal because of the padding.

    This sends alot of force up your leg and joints. By going barefoot/ less padding you change how your run to reduce painful heel strikes. And Therefore less overall forces which results in a healthier long term running strategy.


    Well defined, simplest and very accurate explanation.
  • strunkm4
    strunkm4 Posts: 265 Member
    I run in Vibrams. I bought my first pair at the end of Novemeber, and I can 100% say I am STILL getting used to running barefoot. Don't get me wrong I absolutely LOVE IT, and I know it's doing a remarkable job in strengtheing up everything down there and improving the way I run. When I bought them, they told me it would probably take a good 6 months to get transitioned. I started the first 2 weeks and did feet exercises and everything!
  • ljohnson1112
    ljohnson1112 Posts: 7 Member
    I have a pair of Merrell Vibram's and I LOVE THEM! I must admit it took some time for the transition for me, and my calves KILLED!! Also had some nasty shin splints for awhile, however about three months in now and I LOVE THEM and will never go back. All I can say is it does take some time and remember to work into it, but as far as I'm concerned its worth it ;) Good luck to you!
  • rebeccask
    rebeccask Posts: 140 Member
    What's the benefit to running barefoot or with minimalist shoes? On a run last week, I saw a girl running barefoot on a paved path and thought it looked painful. I don't think I'll ever transition, but I'm curious to know what you think.

    I was in a biomechanics course last year and saw a research presentation on this subject.

    The simplest reason I took away was that with shoes you will land harder on your heal because of the padding.

    This sends alot of force up your leg and joints. By going barefoot/ less padding you change how your run to reduce painful heel strikes. And Therefore less overall forces which results in a healthier long term running strategy.

    This is what I was looking for. Thank you!
  • cyndist
    cyndist Posts: 43
    I don't run but I did buy a pair of VFF KSO and all I can say is after 3 days of working out in them my feet do not hurt. Typically when I wear shoes (fitness tennis shoes) and do any type of workout like Kickboxing or any thing that requires a lot of movement my feet would be killing me within 5 mins of the workout and I would have to lower my intensity or stop the workout. Now I don't have pain with the VFF I can actually workout to my full potential. My knee, hip pain and foot pain are all most gone since wearing VFF. I should also let you all know that if I do wear thick soled cushiony insole shoes I tend to get a bad case of Retrocalcaneal Bursitis and also again with wearing my Vans daily and working out in the Vibrams I have been bursitis free for over a year now.
    Just my two cents worth =)
    Cindy
    ETA: love my new VFF!
  • Resalyn
    Resalyn Posts: 528 Member
    I have been wearing my VFFs for strength training and cardio (either treadmill or stationary bike) since the beginning of January. The last few weeks or so I have had what I thought was a flare-up in left foot plantar fasciitis, but turns out my gastrocnemius (calf) and tibialis anterior (along the shin) muscles are pretty tight and a bit inflamed, probably from trying to transition too quickly. The muscles were so tight that I almost had no dorsiflexion at all.

    I am a massage therapy student, and my instructor worked on my left leg for about an hour last night, and low and behold my dorsiflexion is back to almost normal and the heel pain wasn't there this morning when I got up. Now just need to keep working those muscles to keep them loose enough to avoid the pain.

    My advice to anyone transitioning to minimalist footwear - just take it slow and easy and don't overdo it - it's much easier to prevent injury than try to recover from it!
  • shar140
    shar140 Posts: 1,158 Member
    I have been wearing my VFFs for strength training and cardio (either treadmill or stationary bike) since the beginning of January. The last few weeks or so I have had what I thought was a flare-up in left foot plantar fasciitis, but turns out my gastrocnemius (calf) and tibialis anterior (along the shin) muscles are pretty tight and a bit inflamed, probably from trying to transition too quickly. The muscles were so tight that I almost had no dorsiflexion at all.

    I am a massage therapy student, and my instructor worked on my left leg for about an hour last night, and low and behold my dorsiflexion is back to almost normal and the heel pain wasn't there this morning when I got up. Now just need to keep working those muscles to keep them loose enough to avoid the pain.

    My advice to anyone transitioning to minimalist footwear - just take it slow and easy and don't overdo it - it's much easier to prevent injury than try to recover from it!

    Interesting, thanks for sharing. I've also had a flare-up in the same area (even left foot!) so maybe I will try this! I also switched my work shoes recently (I have to wear steel toes), so it may be a result of that, too. But, the PAIN in my foot, UGH! :angry:
  • Resalyn
    Resalyn Posts: 528 Member
    Interesting, thanks for sharing. I've also had a flare-up in the same area (even left foot!) so maybe I will try this! I also switched my work shoes recently (I have to wear steel toes), so it may be a result of that, too. But, the PAIN in my foot, UGH! :angry:

    You're welcome! He also suggested that I do stretches several times a day - and/or get a tennis ball or maybe one of those knobby dryer balls - and roll it around under my foot - lightly and slowly, to help break up any adhesions, that it will also do light stretching of that tissue.....
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