Barefoot or near barefoot running/walking..
 

Anyone else live primarily barefoot or nearly barefoot (through the use of Vibrams Five Fingers or similar "shoes")? I started running with these and I have to say it's the most amazing experience I ever had when it came to running. I have to say that my recovery is a lot faster and I actually **GASP** enjoy running.

When I used to run, my knee and back would hurt. It'd take a couple of days to recover and I hated running. Today, not any more. You do have to change how you run (you have to do forefoot/mid-foot strike rather than heel strike that we're often used to) but it is well worth it, IMO.

I've seen those, but can't imagine using them!! I have chronic plantar fasciitis in both feet, which makes running virtually impossible. I do walk long distances for exercise, though. I wonder if these have been tested in people with PF?

Jen

Take a look at these reviews:

http://www.runcolo.com/Product-Revie...e-Fingers.html

http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2009/07/barefoot/

http://sparrowrose.livejournal.com/799529.html

I haven't bought the Vibrams yet, but I do walk on the treadmill barefoot and it is much more pleasant for me than with shoes on.

Jesse

I'm too wussy to fully run barefoot, which is why I got these. But I do recommend them if you want to avoid some of the stuff that's on city streets. :)

I am in love with my Vibram Five Fingers, I had become so debilitated that I required a cane to walk for any distance, but with my Vibrams I am cane free!!! I have winter ones, summer ones and dress ones that look like golf gloves for my feet.....they look silly but I sure do feel better! I wholeheartedly recommend them.