Barefoot running

My neighbour came over some time ago with a book on running: "Born To Run" - he was very hyped about this book and said that I had to read it. Normally I never get very enthusiastic about books recommend by a lot of people - I tend to get disappointed when read these books.

But I must admit that I did get inspired by this book - first by the many interesting people the book describes - runners that are not motivated by money or prestige - runners motivated by the challenge and the search for the "right way" of running and living.

Secondly I found the aspect of barefoot running very interesting. The concept is very appealing. and in the last couple of days I've spend a little time to investigate and get wiser on the subject.

My own experience is that in the past 5-6 years where I've been running, I have been fortunate not to have any serious injuries - only smaller pains in knees, thigh, and feet. But nothing I have not be able to cure by not running as intense for a limited period, and nothing that has prevented me from running a planned race.

But I have had an increased concern about my selection of shoes and running style. In the beginning I ran in "neutral" shoes, but has to select Asics Gel Kayano (slight pronation) and I have a suspicion that I have to select a shoe with more pronation. If something gets worse, it is not a lasting solution. Barefoot running is suppose to strengthen your feet and legs to a more natural running style where heal-landing is not an option and where you run more like fore-foot runners.

It is definitely something I will try to explore over the next couple of months - so if there is anybody out there with some experience or want to try the same, please reply to me, so we can share experience.

By coincidence I found that Bare-Foot Ted is running at Copenhagen Marathon tomorrow - It would be great to have a talk with him tomorrow if possible. But with 13.000 runners at the start line, it is probably not going to be likely.. :-)