In part I, I discussed the hype of barefoot running. I did some research and found some interesting information.
I also found a product on the market that is supposed to mimic barefoot running, and no, it's not the NIKE FREE.
Here's one study that might make you think twice the next time a running shoe store employee tells you what shoe you NEED to buy.
The effect of three different levels of footwear stability on pain outcomes in women runners: a randomised control trial
Michael B Ryan, Gordon A Valiant, Kymberly McDonald, Jack E Taunton
This study looked at randomly assigning shoe category type (neutral, stability and motion control) to 3 groups of different foot posture types (neutral, pronated and highly pronated). All runners were female and undertook a 13-week half marathon training program. Thirty two percent of the runners missed training days due to pain/injury. Many runners felt pain when correctly assigned the proper running shoe compared to being assignment the “incorrect” level of support. This study concludes that the “current approach of prescribing in-shoe pronation control systems on the basis of foot type is overly simplistic and potentially injurious.”
Very powerful stuff right there. Also makes me wondering if a site like this is valid?
---> http://www.myprecisionfit.com from Mizuno.
I'm not bashing Mizuno here by any means...I'm questioning the entire process of prescribing the correct shoe for someone.
SO back to naked running...
First, you MUST see this site first:
---> http://www.youarethetechnology.com/
The product I found that mimics barefoot walking-running is the Vibram Fivefingers (http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/)
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| Vibram Fivefingers KSO |
This is an amazing product. I ordered my first pair of Fivefingers last week, so I should get them in the mail in the next few days. I've tried them on before and they are amazingly comfortable. They look ridiculous, but you're just not used to them.
I'll write up a review and let you know what I think. Remember, I have been running in the Nike Frees for the past 5 years...so my feet are used to "minimalist" running. I'll share with you my recommendations and opinions about barefoot running - Vibram Fivefinger Running - Nike Free running in a future post.
So, why all the hype and talk about barefoot running? Aren't we supposed to wear shoes to run you may ask? Well...that's what we are used to...ever since the modern running shoe - 1970s - society has worn supportive and corrective shoes. However, look at places like Australia and New Zealand...it's quite common to see modern-day people walking and running around barefeet. Quite the opposite here in Vancouver, BC. And after reading the study above...what is the "correct" shoe for me or you?
Barefoot walking, running and barefoot activities are thought to "exercise" the intrinsic foot muscles...muscles that get turned off in a structured rigid shoe. Your foot muscles are like any other muscle in your body...if you don't use it...you'll lose it! Think of it as strength training for your foot and lower leg muscles. You may also improve your balance, proprioception, agility and also reduce your risk to foot injuries.
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| Nike Free Run+ |
For starters...there are toe pockets in the Fivefingers (hence the Name!!). These toe pockets allow each individual toe to work as they do when you're barefoot. You'll also notice the Fivefingers has minimal support and has a very low profile. This allows the Fivefingers to act as a protective skin for your foot, but while still allowing the barefoot feel.
Check out this study I found that compared shod running vs. barefoot running vs. fivefinger running:
Biomechanical and physiological comparison of barefoot and two shod conditions in experienced barefoot runners.
Squadrone R, Gallozzi C.
J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2009 Mar;49(1):6-13.
This study found that barefoot runners land with a more plantarflexed ankle, which reduces collision forces and changes stride kinematics. Squadrone and Gallozzi found significantly shorter stride lengths, ground-contact times and higher stride turnover compared with shod running. They also found that running in the Vibram Fivefingers was significantly comparable to running bare feet.
Just incase you missed this video in Part I:
Just incase you missed this video in Part I:
Have any of you tried barefoot running? Please share your experiences.
I want you all to keep in mind that people with Diabetes, a history of foot problems or any other biomechanical issue should consult with their foot doctor and GP before trying barefoot walking, running or any barefoot activities.
Stay tuned for my Fivefingers KSO review,
Thanks for reading,
Jon-Erik Kawamoto
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