I spent last week in Maui and had a very good time. It was great to have a week to spend with my daughter who turned 8 months today.
Here is one picture from the trip:
I ran three times in Maui – one being a 10.38 mile run. And, I ran 7 miles the day after we got back. The best thing about the 7 mile run was that I took Brooklyn in the Bob stroller. We now sit her up in the Bob (i.e. we don’t use the car seat). It makes the run a lot more exciting for her . . . she can actually see what’s going on around her rather than stare back up at me.
The problem with the Bob stroller is that I think it throws my running form off. After the 7 mile run, my knee was hurting. I’ve hurt my knee during my first marathon in 2008 and it always seems to flare up. I can’t go on a run without wearing a brace to help prevent any injury. It is very frustrating as I wish I could just run pain free or without the worry have getting injured. It’s been two years since I recovered from my injury and it still flares up.
So, I’ve decided to give barefoot running a shot. Reading born to run did help push me over the top and go for it. But, I also read blogs and articles on barefoot running. From what I’ve read it can help you with injuries. Not sure, how long this will last or whether it will cause more problems. But, I thought it was worth a shot. I’ve tried ChiRunning (and it has helped me with my form), but I think I need to try something else. The concept of barefoot running makes sense to me (even though today someone told me I’m crazy).
I ran 2 miles on Tuesday barefoot after a short run with shoes. I then ran 4 miles tonight barefoot. After tonight’s run the bottom of my feet are sore. Likely due to pushing up to 4 miles too soon. But, my knee actually feels much better after the run. It has been sore all week. For the first time this week, it actually feels good. I find that a bit odd, but I’ll take it.
I’ll see where this goes. If it seems to work out, I don’t think I’ll stay completely barefoot (I’m a wimp) and would buy FiveFingers to provide some protection for my feet. At least, I’ll have something more to blog about.
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4 comments:
This is interesting to me. I've been wondering about the whole "barefoot" thing for a while now. I can't wait to hear more about your journey with them! Your little one is SO cute and glad you guys had a great vacation!!
One thing about barefoot running is that you really have to ease into it. I cannot stress enough how important this is. Imagine having your arm in a cast for years and then going out to play tennis. Over the years many of your foot muscles have atrophied and need gentle reminder how to work.
Other than that barefooting is FUN.
What a precious princess you have there.
I've done up to a mile barefoot on my treadmill just to see how it went and it does work different parts of my calf than my usual runs. Not sure if I'll go barefoot, but anything that promotes good form I think is a good thing! Keep us posted!
Great, I was entertained by the post. I learn more things on it. Thanks!!!
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