Hello, Rick!

I am almost embarrased to report my running efforts -
they are so meager compared with the Herculean efforts
of you and others!

I seem to be stuck in a pain cycle - no injuries to
report, no blisters, sprains or strains... Just
super-sensitive soles of my feet. My runs start off
very nicely, feel great, etc. and I can start off
running on about any kind of surface. But after only
about 3 miles my feet feel like they become
super-sensitive, and they feel every little bump,
grain of sand, etc. (so it feels). Places that felt
pretty nice at the start of my run feel like they have
grown teeth by the end!

So I have been searching out smoother surfaces to keep
practicing on. My favorite is a section of sidewalk in
Portland, Oregon, just across the Columbia river from
me, where the cement is smooth as glass. Very sweet!
What gets to me are the parts of the sidewalk where
they put a corrugated finish in the cement. Yucch!

So, I have been only getting out about 3-4 times per
week, and going about 3- 4 miles (or less) each run.

But - I STILL LOVE RUNNING BAREFOOT! and I wouldn't
trade it for anything!

Grinning and grimacing,
Ryan
Vancouver, Washington


>
> How was your week?
>
> Cheers!
>
> Barefoot Rick
>
>
>


__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
http://mail.yahoo.com

Postscript: The news trucks were all over the visitor center parking
lot at RMNP when I ran by there covering that missing Ranger ... Hope
they find him alive and in good health!

BR

--- In BarefootRick@yahoogroups.com, "Barefoot Rick"
<barefootrick@b...> wrote:
> This was a great week of mileage, albiet they were slower paced
miles.
> It has turned really hot again in the midwest.
>
> Today, we arrived in Estes Park on vacation, so I got to top off
the
> week with a 5 miler at 7300 ft. elevation. After my run on chip
seal
> and gravel, I soaked my feet in the Big Thompson River that flows
right
> by our condo. Ahhhh!
>
> http://barefootrunner.org/05weeklymileage/weekending7-31-05.htm
>
> How was your week?
>
> Cheers!
>
> Barefoot Rick

This was a great week of mileage, albiet they were slower paced miles.
It has turned really hot again in the midwest.

Today, we arrived in Estes Park on vacation, so I got to top off the
week with a 5 miler at 7300 ft. elevation. After my run on chip seal
and gravel, I soaked my feet in the Big Thompson River that flows right
by our condo. Ahhhh!

http://barefootrunner.org/05weeklymileage/weekending7-31-05.htm

How was your week?

Cheers!

Barefoot Rick

I have dedicated an area to Barefootrunner.org for bf race reports.
This month, I have featured Barefoot Jon, Todd, Margaret and Billy from
the Pacific Northwest. Check it out!

http://www.barefootrunner.org/bfreports/bfreports.htm

or

http://www.barefootrunner.org

and click on the "new" link at the top of the page!

Cheers!

BR

I was talking to a co-worker about this very thing yesterday. He is
familiar with Ken Saxton. Actually, he is the one who once commented
after he saw the pic of Ken and I in Long Beach about how "normal" I
looked. He said, "Now, don't get me wrong. I'm sure Ken is a great
guy. It's just that he LOOKS like the kind of guy that would do
something like barefoot running. You, on the other hand, look
pretty 'normal'". So I asked him, "You mean, like Ted Bundy-looking
normal?" He said, "Yeah, you just wouldn't think that a "normal"
looking person would run barefoot."

So, we were talking about this once again yesterday and he mentioned
that he thought it was more disturbing for folks to see
someone "normal" looking run barefoot than someone with a "little"
hair like Ken. He said it is easy to dismiss Ken as a kook or
eclectic or even ecentric. With someone that looks "normal", it's a
little harder. Then, he said, you would have to delve into the
reasons why a normal-looking person would even dream of running
barefoot. He said it makes people uncomfortable when they have to
process information that they are usually not accustomed to
processing.

Sounds plausible to me.

BR

--- In BarefootRick@yahoogroups.com, "Barefoot Rick"
<barefootrick@b...> wrote:
> I have a theory about barefoot running acceptance. I'm thinking
that
> coastal barefoot running is more widely accepted because of the
> proximity to beaches, warmer climates, etc. Here in the midwest, it
> seems there is less acceptance of barefoot running because people's
> logic would dictate that since there are no soft surfaces such as
> beach, sand, and warmth then it is unacceptable to participate in
> something that you could only do seasonally. What really throws
> folks' perceptions is when they see someone like myself out
barefoot
> running in winter weather. It just does not add up to them.
Barefoot
> running becomes harder to accept by those who don't understand when
> more variables such as surfaces and weather are factors. At times,
I
> think it makes them angry because it goes against their
understanding
> and their mores.
>
> Sometimes, it seems that I get the most negative vibes and comments
> from runners. It's like they can't understand or refuse to
understand
> the logic behind barefoot running, so they choose to get angry or
to
> hurl a negative remark. It's almost like if they acknowledged that
BF
> running might be an alternative then they would somehow have to
> evaluate it as a possibility for themselves. Are they trying to
> measure themselves, as a shod runner to a barefoot runner? Are they
> trying to compute whether the same effort at an 8 minute pace for
> both would somehow be regarded as a more superior effort for the
> barefoot runner? I have a rather objective running friend who has
> mentioned to me the possiblity that shod runner's anger comes from
> the inability to measure themselves with a barefoot effort since,
in
> their opinion, barefoot running would be harder or even impossible.
>
> Things to ponder.
>
> BR

Lunchtime is my Recess and the streets are my playground ... Others eat
to feed their bodies ... I run barefoot to replenish my soul ....

Adventure sports such as bungee jumping and sky diving (which I have
done twice) are very akin to my personality. In other words, thrill-
seeking, to me, is FUN! However, with these "fun" sports comes great
responsibility to ensure that one's "gear" is in good working
condition and can give one the utmost pleasure without unneeded risk.

I think the same thing can be said for our "running gear". If we take
care of our feet, they will serve us long in this life hobby we all
enjoy.

BR

--- In BarefootRick@yahoogroups.com, "bryanakira" <janus1o1@a...>
wrote:
> Aye. My foot pads have already gotten mighty tough after little more
> than a few weeks on the hot pavement. Still suple and soft, but
> notably thicker. Doing my best to work my foot pads, but listening
as
> closely as possibly to when my feet tell me they've had enough. :)
>
> I just meant to illustrate that of all the concerns most may have
> about barefoot running, hot surfaces are one of the few that
shouldn't
> be taken carelessly. Technically nothing about barefoot running
should
> be taken too carelessly, but for the most part we all get by without
> thinking of our feet after a few weeks. :)
>
> --- In BarefootRick@yahoogroups.com, Rick Roeber <barefootrick@b...>
> wrote:
> > Just keep working at it Bryan. As you know, the more you practice
> something the better you'll get. Where you were once only able to
go a
> mile on hot pavement, the distance will continue to increase with
> practice. Just build slowly! Just like any part of your body, the
> soles of your feet are subject to degrees of burning!
> >
> > BR
> >
> > bryanakira <janus1o1@a...> wrote:
> > I have to agree with that. I'm still new to the barefoot running,
> > although I've been walking barefoot for over a year, debris, and
even
> > feet softening from the water hasn't bothered me once. We all know
> > it's uncomfortable to get a particularly jagged rock packed in
your
> > foot, but rarely does this ever penetrate, thanks to our feet
> > informing us that it wouldn't be a good idea to place our full
weight
> > directly upon that spot. :)
> >
> > Hot pavement on the other hand, not even a mile of running between
> > shadows and my feet are virtually out of action for the next day.
Walk
> > able, but mighty sore. Deffinitely not to be taken lightly, if
you're
> > in the South.
> >
> > --- In BarefootRick@yahoogroups.com, byron rieper <brieper@y...>
wrote:
> > > In 1999 I cycled 200 miles a day from San Diego to
> > > Savannah, GA with Lon Haldeman's PACTOUR. It rained
> > > all the way from Springfield, MO to the end; something
> > > like
> > > 1600 miles with rain in your face every minute, every
> > > mile.  Just about trashed my steel bike but better
> > > than the year before when we never rode under 110
> > > degrees till we get to Tennessee.
> > >
> > > Only problem with running barefoot or riding a bike in
> > > the rain is that debris cling to your tires, in the
> > > case of a bike, and to your feet in case of the
> > > barefooted runner.  In the former case you get flats
> > > more frequently and in the latter you get ouchies.
> > >
> > > Other than that it sure beats the heat
> > >
> > > On another note.. I am noticing that debris in the
> > > road is not so much a problem running barefoot as hot
> > > pavement. I find myself slipping onto the grass much
> > > more in the heat and looking for puddles in the road.
> > > Are there any other tricks???
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > ---------------------------------
> > YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
> >
> >
> >     Visit your group "BarefootRick" on the web.
> >
> >     To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
> >  BarefootRick-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
> >
> >     Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of
> Service.
> >
> >
> > ---------------------------------

I have a theory about barefoot running acceptance. I'm thinking that
coastal barefoot running is more widely accepted because of the
proximity to beaches, warmer climates, etc. Here in the midwest, it
seems there is less acceptance of barefoot running because people's
logic would dictate that since there are no soft surfaces such as
beach, sand, and warmth then it is unacceptable to participate in
something that you could only do seasonally. What really throws
folks' perceptions is when they see someone like myself out barefoot
running in winter weather. It just does not add up to them.  Barefoot
running becomes harder to accept by those who don't understand when
more variables such as surfaces and weather are factors. At times, I
think it makes them angry because it goes against their understanding
and their mores.

Sometimes, it seems that I get the most negative vibes and comments
from runners. It's like they can't understand or refuse to understand
the logic behind barefoot running, so they choose to get angry or to
hurl a negative remark. It's almost like if they acknowledged that BF
running might be an alternative then they would somehow have to
evaluate it as a possibility for themselves. Are they trying to
measure themselves, as a shod runner to a barefoot runner? Are they
trying to compute whether the same effort at an 8 minute pace for
both would somehow be regarded as a more superior effort for the
barefoot runner? I have a rather objective running friend who has
mentioned to me the possiblity that shod runner's anger comes from
the inability to measure themselves with a barefoot effort since, in
their opinion, barefoot running would be harder or even impossible.

Things to ponder.

BR

Aye. My foot pads have already gotten mighty tough after little more
than a few weeks on the hot pavement. Still suple and soft, but
notably thicker. Doing my best to work my foot pads, but listening as
closely as possibly to when my feet tell me they've had enough. :)

I just meant to illustrate that of all the concerns most may have
about barefoot running, hot surfaces are one of the few that shouldn't
be taken carelessly. Technically nothing about barefoot running should
be taken too carelessly, but for the most part we all get by without
thinking of our feet after a few weeks. :)

--- In BarefootRick@yahoogroups.com, Rick Roeber <barefootrick@b...>
wrote:
> Just keep working at it Bryan. As you know, the more you practice
something the better you'll get. Where you were once only able to go a
mile on hot pavement, the distance will continue to increase with
practice. Just build slowly! Just like any part of your body, the
soles of your feet are subject to degrees of burning!
>
> BR
>
> bryanakira <janus1o1@a...> wrote:
> I have to agree with that. I'm still new to the barefoot running,
> although I've been walking barefoot for over a year, debris, and even
> feet softening from the water hasn't bothered me once. We all know
> it's uncomfortable to get a particularly jagged rock packed in your
> foot, but rarely does this ever penetrate, thanks to our feet
> informing us that it wouldn't be a good idea to place our full weight
> directly upon that spot. :)
>
> Hot pavement on the other hand, not even a mile of running between
> shadows and my feet are virtually out of action for the next day. Walk
> able, but mighty sore. Deffinitely not to be taken lightly, if you're
> in the South.
>
> --- In BarefootRick@yahoogroups.com, byron rieper <brieper@y...> wrote:
> > In 1999 I cycled 200 miles a day from San Diego to
> > Savannah, GA with Lon Haldeman's PACTOUR. It rained
> > all the way from Springfield, MO to the end; something
> > like
> > 1600 miles with rain in your face every minute, every
> > mile.  Just about trashed my steel bike but better
> > than the year before when we never rode under 110
> > degrees till we get to Tennessee.
> >
> > Only problem with running barefoot or riding a bike in
> > the rain is that debris cling to your tires, in the
> > case of a bike, and to your feet in case of the
> > barefooted runner.  In the former case you get flats
> > more frequently and in the latter you get ouchies.
> >
> > Other than that it sure beats the heat
> >
> > On another note.. I am noticing that debris in the
> > road is not so much a problem running barefoot as hot
> > pavement. I find myself slipping onto the grass much
> > more in the heat and looking for puddles in the road.
> > Are there any other tricks???
>
>
>
>
> ---------------------------------
> YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
>
>
>     Visit your group "BarefootRick" on the web.
>
>     To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
>  BarefootRick-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>
>     Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of
Service.
>
>
> ---------------------------------

I have to agree with that. I'm still new to the barefoot running,
although I've been walking barefoot for over a year, debris, and even
feet softening from the water hasn't bothered me once. We all know
it's uncomfortable to get a particularly jagged rock packed in your
foot, but rarely does this ever penetrate, thanks to our feet
informing us that it wouldn't be a good idea to place our full weight
directly upon that spot. :)

Hot pavement on the other hand, not even a mile of running between
shadows and my feet are virtually out of action for the next day. Walk
able, but mighty sore. Deffinitely not to be taken lightly, if you're
in the South.

--- In BarefootRick@yahoogroups.com, byron rieper <brieper@y...> wrote:
> In 1999 I cycled 200 miles a day from San Diego to
> Savannah, GA with Lon Haldeman's PACTOUR. It rained
> all the way from Springfield, MO to the end; something
> like 
> 1600 miles with rain in your face every minute, every
> mile.  Just about trashed my steel bike but better
> than the year before when we never rode under 110
> degrees till we get to Tennessee.
>
> Only problem with running barefoot or riding a bike in
> the rain is that debris cling to your tires, in the
> case of a bike, and to your feet in case of the
> barefooted runner.  In the former case you get flats
> more frequently and in the latter you get ouchies.
>
> Other than that it sure beats the heat
>
> On another note.. I am noticing that debris in the
> road is not so much a problem running barefoot as hot
> pavement. I find myself slipping onto the grass much
> more in the heat and looking for puddles in the road.
> Are there any other tricks???

---

YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS

•  Visit your group "BarefootRick" on the web.
   
•  To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
   BarefootRick-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
   
•  Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.

---

In 1999 I cycled 200 miles a day from San Diego to
Savannah, GA with Lon Haldeman's PACTOUR. It rained
all the way from Springfield, MO to the end; something
like 
1600 miles with rain in your face every minute, every
mile.  Just about trashed my steel bike but better
than the year before when we never rode under 110
degrees till we get to Tennessee.

Only problem with running barefoot or riding a bike in
the rain is that debris cling to your tires, in the
case of a bike, and to your feet in case of the
barefooted runner.  In the former case you get flats
more frequently and in the latter you get ouchies.

Other than that it sure beats the heat

On another note.. I am noticing that debris in the
road is not so much a problem running barefoot as hot
pavement. I find myself slipping onto the grass much
more in the heat and looking for puddles in the road.
Are there any other tricks???

Rick, I absolutely LOVE running in the rain but THE most fun I've ever
had in it was last year while biking home from work and getting caught
in the most torrential downpour. It was completely exhilarating. I
"yahoo'd several times during that ride!!

:)

Mark

On 26-Jul-05, at 4:36 PM, Barefoot Rick wrote:

> Returning today from my lunchtime 10 mile run, a co-worker (non-runner
> but once a runner) asks if I ran in the rain today as he looked out the
> window and the obvious rain was pelting the glass. I answered, "Why,
> yes, of course I did!" He said what's up with that. He continues, "I
> used to love running in the rain when I ran, but why is that I hate
> walking in the rain?" I stated, "Well, it's probably because you're not
> dressed for 'play'. When you're in your business dress, you're all
> worried about getting wet. When you're dressed to "play", as I look at
> running everday, it's fun and exhilirating and you don't care ... kinda
> like when you were a kid". He looked at me and said, "Yeah, and how did
> you come up with such a correct psychological answer so quick?" I
> chuckled and explained I have a lot of time to think while I'm
> out "playing"!
>
>
>
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
http://completerunning.com/running-blog-mark/

I have to agree with that. I'm still new to the barefoot running,
although I've been walking barefoot for over a year, debris, and even
feet softening from the water hasn't bothered me once. We all know
it's uncomfortable to get a particularly jagged rock packed in your
foot, but rarely does this ever penetrate, thanks to our feet
informing us that it wouldn't be a good idea to place our full weight
directly upon that spot. :)

Hot pavement on the other hand, not even a mile of running between
shadows and my feet are virtually out of action for the next day. Walk
able, but mighty sore. Deffinitely not to be taken lightly, if you're
in the South.

--- In BarefootRick@yahoogroups.com, byron rieper <brieper@y...> wrote:
> In 1999 I cycled 200 miles a day from San Diego to
> Savannah, GA with Lon Haldeman's PACTOUR. It rained
> all the way from Springfield, MO to the end; something
> like
> 1600 miles with rain in your face every minute, every
> mile.  Just about trashed my steel bike but better
> than the year before when we never rode under 110
> degrees till we get to Tennessee.
>
> Only problem with running barefoot or riding a bike in
> the rain is that debris cling to your tires, in the
> case of a bike, and to your feet in case of the
> barefooted runner.  In the former case you get flats
> more frequently and in the latter you get ouchies.
>
> Other than that it sure beats the heat
>
> On another note.. I am noticing that debris in the
> road is not so much a problem running barefoot as hot
> pavement. I find myself slipping onto the grass much
> more in the heat and looking for puddles in the road.
> Are there any other tricks???

In 1999 I cycled 200 miles a day from San Diego to
Savannah, GA with Lon Haldeman's PACTOUR. It rained
all the way from Springfield, MO to the end; something
like
1600 miles with rain in your face every minute, every
mile.  Just about trashed my steel bike but better
than the year before when we never rode under 110
degrees till we get to Tennessee.

Only problem with running barefoot or riding a bike in
the rain is that debris cling to your tires, in the
case of a bike, and to your feet in case of the
barefooted runner.  In the former case you get flats
more frequently and in the latter you get ouchies.

Other than that it sure beats the heat

On another note.. I am noticing that debris in the
road is not so much a problem running barefoot as hot
pavement. I find myself slipping onto the grass much
more in the heat and looking for puddles in the road.
Are there any other tricks???

Rick, I absolutely LOVE running in the rain but THE most fun I've ever
had in it was last year while biking home from work and getting caught
in the most torrential downpour. It was completely exhilarating. I
"yahoo'd several times during that ride!!

:)

Mark

On 26-Jul-05, at 4:36 PM, Barefoot Rick wrote:

> Returning today from my lunchtime 10 mile run, a co-worker (non-runner
> but once a runner) asks if I ran in the rain today as he looked out the
> window and the obvious rain was pelting the glass. I answered, "Why,
> yes, of course I did!" He said what's up with that. He continues, "I
> used to love running in the rain when I ran, but why is that I hate
> walking in the rain?" I stated, "Well, it's probably because you're not
> dressed for 'play'. When you're in your business dress, you're all
> worried about getting wet. When you're dressed to "play", as I look at
> running everday, it's fun and exhilirating and you don't care ... kinda
> like when you were a kid". He looked at me and said, "Yeah, and how did
> you come up with such a correct psychological answer so quick?" I
> chuckled and explained I have a lot of time to think while I'm
> out "playing"!
>
>
>
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
http://completerunning.com/running-blog-mark/

Returning today from my lunchtime 10 mile run, a co-worker (non-runner
but once a runner) asks if I ran in the rain today as he looked out the
window and the obvious rain was pelting the glass. I answered, "Why,
yes, of course I did!" He said what's up with that. He continues, "I
used to love running in the rain when I ran, but why is that I hate
walking in the rain?" I stated, "Well, it's probably because you're not
dressed for 'play'. When you're in your business dress, you're all
worried about getting wet. When you're dressed to "play", as I look at
running everday, it's fun and exhilirating and you don't care ... kinda
like when you were a kid". He looked at me and said, "Yeah, and how did
you come up with such a correct psychological answer so quick?" I
chuckled and explained I have a lot of time to think while I'm
out "playing"!

As I run, I notice that broken glass is not scattered
evenly throughout my course. When I find it, its
always concentrated more-or-less in one area (where
the bottle landed and broke with some spreading
outwards from the point of impact.) I can see it from
some distance away, so I can usually plot a path
through it where there are clear areas large enough to
put my feet down safely. If it is really concentrated,
I can just detour around it altogether. On those rare
occasions when I do step on glass despite trying to
avoid it, the chances that the glass will actually do
any harm are greatly reduced, because I'm not grinding
my feet against it. The occasional errant chunk of
glass has usually been worn by other foot activity and
is really nothing much more than a silicon pebble by
the time I come across it - not much threat for giving
me any nasty pokes or slices. What bothers me the most
is the stray angular pebble just lying there against
concrete or asphalt. If it hits a bony part of my foot
- big OUCH!

Ryan
Vancouver

--- Barefoot Rick <barefootrick@...>
wrote:

> Here's something to think about the next time
> someone states the
> ridiculous fear of stepping on glass when out for a
> run.
>
> First of all, sidewalks are probably what I run on
> the most, so I
> will use that for my example. Most are approximately
> 4 ft. (or 48
> inches ) wide. So, given that my average stride is
> about 3 ft. (36
> inches), we will use the example that there are 12
> square feet (1728
> sq. inches) in which I can plant my barefeet. Now,
> consider that my
> foot is 4.5 inches wide in the widest part, and
> about 11 inches long,
> the approximate square inches on my foot strike is
> 49.5 times 2
> equals 99 square inches.
>
> So, with that said, I have about a one out of 17
> chance of stepping
> on glass. THAT, OF COURSE, IS ASSUMING THERE IS
> GLASS ON EVERY 12
> SQUARE FEET OF CONCRETE SIDEWALK. However, we will
> assume that a city
> block is one tenth of a mile or 528 ft. and that
> there is a broken
> beer bottle in this section. If we multiply 528 ft.
> times 4 we get
> the square footage of 2112 square feet (or 304,128
> square inches).
> Divide 304,128 by 99 square inches (my feet strike),
> I am now up to a
> one and 3,072 that one of my feet will come in
> contact with the glass.
>
> My mathematics are probably screwy, but you get my
> point. Chances are
> very unlikely a person will actually step on glass
> if they are
> running on a 4 foot wide sidewalk, given they can
> correct their foot
> strike as warranted.
>
> Rebuttals are welcome!
>
> Barefoot Rick
>
>
>
>


__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
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http://mail.yahoo.com

As I run, I notice that broken glass is not scattered
evenly throughout my course. When I find it, its
always concentrated more-or-less in one area (where
the bottle landed and broke with some spreading
outwards from the point of impact.) I can see it from
some distance away, so I can usually plot a path
through it where there are clear areas large enough to
put my feet down safely. If it is really concentrated,
I can just detour around it altogether. On those rare
occasions when I do step on glass despite trying to
avoid it, the chances that the glass will actually do
any harm are greatly reduced, because I'm not grinding
my feet against it. The occasional errant chunk of
glass has usually been worn by other foot activity and
is really nothing much more than a silicon pebble by
the time I come across it - not much threat for giving
me any nasty pokes or slices. What bothers me the most
is the stray angular pebble just lying there against
concrete or asphalt. If it hits a bony part of my foot
- big OUCH!

Ryan
Vancouver

--- Barefoot Rick <barefootrick@...>
wrote:

> Here's something to think about the next time
> someone states the
> ridiculous fear of stepping on glass when out for a
> run.
>
> First of all, sidewalks are probably what I run on
> the most, so I
> will use that for my example. Most are approximately
> 4 ft. (or 48
> inches ) wide. So, given that my average stride is
> about 3 ft. (36
> inches), we will use the example that there are 12
> square feet (1728
> sq. inches) in which I can plant my barefeet. Now,
> consider that my
> foot is 4.5 inches wide in the widest part, and
> about 11 inches long,
> the approximate square inches on my foot strike is
> 49.5 times 2
> equals 99 square inches.
>
> So, with that said, I have about a one out of 17
> chance of stepping
> on glass. THAT, OF COURSE, IS ASSUMING THERE IS
> GLASS ON EVERY 12
> SQUARE FEET OF CONCRETE SIDEWALK. However, we will
> assume that a city
> block is one tenth of a mile or 528 ft. and that
> there is a broken
> beer bottle in this section. If we multiply 528 ft.
> times 4 we get
> the square footage of 2112 square feet (or 304,128
> square inches).
> Divide 304,128 by 99 square inches (my feet strike),
> I am now up to a
> one and 3,072 that one of my feet will come in
> contact with the glass.
>
> My mathematics are probably screwy, but you get my
> point. Chances are
> very unlikely a person will actually step on glass
> if they are
> running on a 4 foot wide sidewalk, given they can
> correct their foot
> strike as warranted.
>
> Rebuttals are welcome!
>
> Barefoot Rick
>
>
>
>


__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
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"So, after decades of investment in billions of rands of running shoes
aimed at stabilising the foot to prevent injuries, research has shown
that the human body has its own intricate and complex mechanisms to
cope with the impact of running - as it has been doing for thousands of
years."

http://www.mrc.ac.za/mrcnews/july2005/running.htm

I'm pleased that voices are being raised on behalf of barefoot
running -- thanks in large part to BR and to KB Saxton -- but really,
imho, barefoot running needs no defense.  It is what it is -- the way
that humans have run for virtually all of their time on this planet.  In
truth, the "defense" that is needed is defense of shoes.

-- Jerry 

On 26 Jul 2005 at 12:18, Barefoot Rick wrote:

Not sure who this person is, but they have come to the defense of
barefoot running:

http://forums.runnersworld.com/message.jspa?messageID=600527
0&tstart=0

BR





Yahoo! Groups Links








Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023
jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399

I'm pleased that voices are being raised on behalf of barefoot
running -- thanks in large part to BR and to KB Saxton -- but really,
imho, barefoot running needs no defense.  It is what it is -- the way
that humans have run for virtually all of their time on this planet.  In
truth, the "defense" that is needed is defense of shoes.

-- Jerry

On 26 Jul 2005 at 12:18, Barefoot Rick wrote:

Not sure who this person is, but they have come to the defense of
barefoot running:

http://forums.runnersworld.com/message.jspa?messageID=600527
0&tstart=0

BR





Yahoo! Groups Links








Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023
jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399

Not sure who this person is, but they have come to the defense of
barefoot running:

http://forums.runnersworld.com/message.jspa?messageID=6005270&tstart=0

BR

Here's something to think about the next time someone states the
ridiculous fear of stepping on glass when out for a run.

First of all, sidewalks are probably what I run on the most, so I
will use that for my example. Most are approximately 4 ft. (or 48
inches ) wide. So, given that my average stride is about 3 ft. (36
inches), we will use the example that there are 12 square feet (1728
sq. inches) in which I can plant my barefeet. Now, consider that my
foot is 4.5 inches wide in the widest part, and about 11 inches long,
the approximate square inches on my foot strike is 49.5 times 2
equals 99 square inches.

So, with that said, I have about a one out of 17 chance of stepping
on glass. THAT, OF COURSE, IS ASSUMING THERE IS GLASS ON EVERY 12
SQUARE FEET OF CONCRETE SIDEWALK. However, we will assume that a city
block is one tenth of a mile or 528 ft. and that there is a broken
beer bottle in this section. If we multiply 528 ft. times 4 we get
the square footage of 2112 square feet (or 304,128 square inches).
Divide 304,128 by 99 square inches (my feet strike), I am now up to a
one and 3,072 that one of my feet will come in contact with the glass.

My mathematics are probably screwy, but you get my point. Chances are
very unlikely a person will actually step on glass if they are
running on a 4 foot wide sidewalk, given they can correct their foot
strike as warranted.

Rebuttals are welcome!

Barefoot Rick

This was the hottest week of the summer so far. All of my outside runs
were when the temps were well above 90 degrees with high humidity. The
last couple of days I have been ending my runs at our subdivision's
pool. It has been a welcome relief to cool down and to stretch in the
water after my runs.

55 miles this week:

http://barefootrunner.org/05weeklymileage/weekending7-24-05.htm

BR

Right on!

-- Jerry

P.S.  Managed to stay on plan this morning.

On 22 Jul 2005 at 19:36, Rick Roeber wrote:

That is the main reason I run barefoot, Jerry, is for the form
changes
it forces. Like I said, I don't trust shoes (or my inability to feel
the feedback in shoes) to give me honest sensory perception. I
know
when I am running with good form barefoot ... I'm not sure I would
know with shoes on anymore.

Then there are the other reasons like

it feels good
it's cheaper than buying shoes
I always have my shoes with me
no blisters from shoes
I usually always win the barefoot division at races!

just to name a few!

Regards,

BR

Jerry Griffin <jerryg@...> wrote:
Owen and Rick, I have no quarrel with anything you say.  My
question was really an enquiry as to whether the benefits of barefoot
running derive more from the form changes it forces, than from
being
barefoot; that if you could get the same form changes another way,
would it be necessary to run barefoot?

Which is not an argument against barefoot running.  My plan for
tomorrow morning (always subject to conditions) is a two-mile shod
run
to a lovely large field, five times around the field (five miles), and
two miles home, shod.  If I'm feeling particularly good, I may try one
of the last two miles in bare feet!

-- Jerry



On 22 Jul 2005 at 14:56, Rick Roeber wrote:

Jerry - If someone can run in minimalist shoes and maintain proper
form, I say go for it. For me, I don't think I could. I would revert
back to my bad habits of sloppy technique. Did I make a
generalization
in my post about runners wearing shoes and suffering injuries?
Probably. But, to those I would say look for the similarities and not
necessarily the differences. In other words, folks should take what
they need and leave the rest. It's not necessary that we all see eye
to eye. Since I have never taken the time to read into the mechanics
of Pose or Chi, I cannot categorically agree that the proverbial
chicken came before the egg or vice versa. I do know that many
have
benefited from both regarding form, and that is why I link to their
respective sites off my webpage. These are just my observations.
For
me, everyday when I go out barefoot running I am continually
reminded
of form because my feet tell me when my form sucks. Others are
probably smarter than I am and can wear minimalist shoes and
maintain
and improve form. For myself, I think why should I since I get all the
feedback I need from being barefoot? Why spend the money?

Thanks for the thought provoking reply, Jerry.

BR

Jerry Griffin <jerryg@...> wrote:
Rick,

You know how much I love barefoot running (did five miles
yesterday), so I think you'll take the following question in the open-
minded way in which it is asked.

I'm wondering whether the choice you've made -- to give up being
injured -- was really a choice to quit heel-striking, to begin to land
in such a way as to absorb and spread the impact rather than
continually impacting your knees -- in other words, to adapt a
running
style that is Pose-like or Chi-like?  As much as I like barefoot
running, I'm wondering whether the benefits actually come more
from
the different landing that is required by barefoot running, than by
the barefoot-ness itself? 

I have recently been doing some road work in minimalist shoes --
the
Puma H Streets with insole removed -- and while it's not the same
as
barefoot, I think it requires the same changes -- and gives the same
benefits -- that you ascribe to barefoot running.

I don't want anyone to give up barefoot running, least of all myself;
but I wonder whether we are mis-attributing the benefits? 

What do you think?

-- Jerry

On 22 Jul 2005 at 13:03, Barefoot Rick wrote:

I heard a speaker at a conference (I don't think it was running
related) talk about life choices and the "Rocking Chair Decisions" he
had made for his life, family, etc. He continued to relate how these
were decisions that he would smile and feel good about as he lazily
spent his retirement years rocking back and forth in peaceful bliss. I
got to thinking about barefoot running and how glad I was to have
"run" across Ken's site a couple of years ago. For me, when I
decided
to run exclusively barefoot, was one of the biggest RC decisions I
have ever made. Ironically, I have a feeling that I won't be the one
reflecting from my rocking chair on the choice to run barefoot, but I
believe many others who cannot or will not give up their running
shoes
will be the ones consigned to a sedentary, rocking chair retirement.

Learning to run barefoot, for me, was not the easiest thing I have
ever done. If barefoot running was easy, I believe everyone would
be
doing it. However, most people associate something that might be
hard
in the beginning as something "bad". Most runners will continue to
take the "easier, softer way" which, in the long run (pun intended)
they will find it is the way of chronic knee, leg, and back injury.
There are so many people that I talk to who were once runners and
wish
they could still run. It's kind of like talking to a recovering
alcoholic who knows he has lost the privilege to drink because of his
abuse and thinks back to the day when once drinking was still fun.

That's why I mention on the main page of barefootrunner.org that I
am
a "grateful recovering shod runner". I know that without finding
runningbarefoot.org and people like you, that I would still be in
denial and running from one injury to another. My rocking chair
decision for today is to make decisions that will not put me in a
rocking chair someday, but will give me longevity at my life hobby
for
years to come.

Barefoot Rick





Yahoo! Groups Links








Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023 jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399



SPONSORED LINKS
Nike running shoes Running shoes Running

---------------------------------
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    Visit your group "BarefootRick" on the web.

    To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
BarefootRick-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

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    Service.


---------------------------------







Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023 jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399



---------------------------------
YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS


    Visit your group "BarefootRick" on the web.

    To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
BarefootRick-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

    Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of
    Service.


---------------------------------







Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023
jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399

Right on!

-- Jerry

P.S.  Managed to stay on plan this morning.

On 22 Jul 2005 at 19:36, Rick Roeber wrote:

That is the main reason I run barefoot, Jerry, is for the form
changes
it forces. Like I said, I don't trust shoes (or my inability to feel
the feedback in shoes) to give me honest sensory perception. I
know
when I am running with good form barefoot ... I'm not sure I would
know with shoes on anymore.

Then there are the other reasons like

it feels good
it's cheaper than buying shoes
I always have my shoes with me
no blisters from shoes
I usually always win the barefoot division at races!

just to name a few!

Regards,

BR

Jerry Griffin <jerryg@...> wrote:
Owen and Rick, I have no quarrel with anything you say.  My
question was really an enquiry as to whether the benefits of barefoot
running derive more from the form changes it forces, than from
being
barefoot; that if you could get the same form changes another way,
would it be necessary to run barefoot?

Which is not an argument against barefoot running.  My plan for
tomorrow morning (always subject to conditions) is a two-mile shod
run
to a lovely large field, five times around the field (five miles), and
two miles home, shod.  If I'm feeling particularly good, I may try one
of the last two miles in bare feet!

-- Jerry



On 22 Jul 2005 at 14:56, Rick Roeber wrote:

Jerry - If someone can run in minimalist shoes and maintain proper
form, I say go for it. For me, I don't think I could. I would revert
back to my bad habits of sloppy technique. Did I make a
generalization
in my post about runners wearing shoes and suffering injuries?
Probably. But, to those I would say look for the similarities and not
necessarily the differences. In other words, folks should take what
they need and leave the rest. It's not necessary that we all see eye
to eye. Since I have never taken the time to read into the mechanics
of Pose or Chi, I cannot categorically agree that the proverbial
chicken came before the egg or vice versa. I do know that many
have
benefited from both regarding form, and that is why I link to their
respective sites off my webpage. These are just my observations.
For
me, everyday when I go out barefoot running I am continually
reminded
of form because my feet tell me when my form sucks. Others are
probably smarter than I am and can wear minimalist shoes and
maintain
and improve form. For myself, I think why should I since I get all the
feedback I need from being barefoot? Why spend the money?

Thanks for the thought provoking reply, Jerry.

BR

Jerry Griffin <jerryg@...> wrote:
Rick,

You know how much I love barefoot running (did five miles
yesterday), so I think you'll take the following question in the open-
minded way in which it is asked.

I'm wondering whether the choice you've made -- to give up being
injured -- was really a choice to quit heel-striking, to begin to land
in such a way as to absorb and spread the impact rather than
continually impacting your knees -- in other words, to adapt a
running
style that is Pose-like or Chi-like?  As much as I like barefoot
running, I'm wondering whether the benefits actually come more
from
the different landing that is required by barefoot running, than by
the barefoot-ness itself?

I have recently been doing some road work in minimalist shoes --
the
Puma H Streets with insole removed -- and while it's not the same
as
barefoot, I think it requires the same changes -- and gives the same
benefits -- that you ascribe to barefoot running.

I don't want anyone to give up barefoot running, least of all myself;
but I wonder whether we are mis-attributing the benefits?

What do you think?

-- Jerry

On 22 Jul 2005 at 13:03, Barefoot Rick wrote:

I heard a speaker at a conference (I don't think it was running
related) talk about life choices and the "Rocking Chair Decisions" he
had made for his life, family, etc. He continued to relate how these
were decisions that he would smile and feel good about as he lazily
spent his retirement years rocking back and forth in peaceful bliss. I
got to thinking about barefoot running and how glad I was to have
"run" across Ken's site a couple of years ago. For me, when I
decided
to run exclusively barefoot, was one of the biggest RC decisions I
have ever made. Ironically, I have a feeling that I won't be the one
reflecting from my rocking chair on the choice to run barefoot, but I
believe many others who cannot or will not give up their running
shoes
will be the ones consigned to a sedentary, rocking chair retirement.

Learning to run barefoot, for me, was not the easiest thing I have
ever done. If barefoot running was easy, I believe everyone would
be
doing it. However, most people associate something that might be
hard
in the beginning as something "bad". Most runners will continue to
take the "easier, softer way" which, in the long run (pun intended)
they will find it is the way of chronic knee, leg, and back injury.
There are so many people that I talk to who were once runners and
wish
they could still run. It's kind of like talking to a recovering
alcoholic who knows he has lost the privilege to drink because of his
abuse and thinks back to the day when once drinking was still fun.

That's why I mention on the main page of barefootrunner.org that I
am
a "grateful recovering shod runner". I know that without finding
runningbarefoot.org and people like you, that I would still be in
denial and running from one injury to another. My rocking chair
decision for today is to make decisions that will not put me in a
rocking chair someday, but will give me longevity at my life hobby
for
years to come.

Barefoot Rick





Yahoo! Groups Links








Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023 jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399



SPONSORED LINKS
Nike running shoes Running shoes Running

---------------------------------
YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS


     Visit your group "BarefootRick" on the web.

     To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
BarefootRick-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

     Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of
     Service.


---------------------------------







Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023 jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399



---------------------------------
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     Visit your group "BarefootRick" on the web.

     To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
  BarefootRick-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

     Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of
     Service.


---------------------------------







Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023
jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399

Owen and Rick, I have no quarrel with anything you say.  My
question was really an enquiry as to whether the benefits of barefoot
running derive more from the form changes it forces, than from
being barefoot; that if you could get the same form changes another
way, would it be necessary to run barefoot?

Which is not an argument against barefoot running.  My plan for
tomorrow morning (always subject to conditions) is a two-mile shod
run to a lovely large field, five times around the field (five miles), and
two miles home, shod.  If I'm feeling particularly good, I may try one
of the last two miles in bare feet!

-- Jerry



On 22 Jul 2005 at 14:56, Rick Roeber wrote:

Jerry - If someone can run in minimalist shoes and maintain proper
form, I say go for it. For me, I don't think I could. I would revert
back to my bad habits of sloppy technique. Did I make a
generalization
in my post about runners wearing shoes and suffering injuries?
Probably. But, to those I would say look for the similarities and not
necessarily the differences. In other words, folks should take what
they need and leave the rest. It's not necessary that we all see eye
to eye. Since I have never taken the time to read into the mechanics
of Pose or Chi, I cannot categorically agree that the proverbial
chicken came before the egg or vice versa. I do know that many
have
benefited from both regarding form, and that is why I link to their
respective sites off my webpage. These are just my observations.
For
me, everyday when I go out barefoot running I am continually
reminded
of form because my feet tell me when my form sucks. Others are
probably smarter than I am and can wear
minimalist shoes and maintain and improve form. For myself, I
think
why should I since I get all the feedback I need from being
barefoot?
Why spend the money?

Thanks for the thought provoking reply, Jerry.

BR

Jerry Griffin <jerryg@...> wrote:
Rick,

You know how much I love barefoot running (did five miles
yesterday), so I think you'll take the following question in the open-
minded way in which it is asked.

I'm wondering whether the choice you've made -- to give up being
injured -- was really a choice to quit heel-striking, to begin to land
in such a way as to absorb and spread the impact rather than
continually impacting your knees -- in other words, to adapt a
running
style that is Pose-like or Chi-like?  As much as I like barefoot
running, I'm wondering whether the benefits actually come more
from
the different landing that is required by barefoot running, than by
the barefoot-ness itself? 

I have recently been doing some road work in minimalist shoes --
the
Puma H Streets with insole removed -- and while it's not the same
as
barefoot, I think it requires the same changes -- and gives the same
benefits -- that you ascribe to barefoot running.

I don't want anyone to give up barefoot running, least of all myself;
but I wonder whether we are mis-attributing the benefits? 

What do you think?

-- Jerry

On 22 Jul 2005 at 13:03, Barefoot Rick wrote:

I heard a speaker at a conference (I don't think it was running
related) talk about life choices and the "Rocking Chair Decisions" he
had made for his life, family, etc. He continued to relate how these
were decisions that he would smile and feel good about as he lazily
spent his retirement years rocking back and forth in peaceful bliss. I
got to thinking about barefoot running and how glad I was to have
"run" across Ken's site a couple of years ago. For me, when I
decided
to run exclusively barefoot, was one of the biggest RC decisions I
have ever made. Ironically, I have a feeling that I won't be the one
reflecting from my rocking chair on the choice to run barefoot, but I
believe many others who cannot or will not give up their running
shoes
will be the ones consigned to a sedentary, rocking chair retirement.

Learning to run barefoot, for me, was not the easiest thing I have
ever done. If barefoot running was easy, I believe everyone would
be
doing it. However, most people associate something that might be
hard
in the beginning as something "bad". Most runners will continue to
take the "easier, softer way" which, in the long run (pun intended)
they will find it is the way of chronic knee, leg, and back injury.
There are so many people that I talk to who were once runners and
wish
they could still run. It's kind of like talking to a recovering
alcoholic who knows he has lost the privilege to drink because of his
abuse and thinks back to the day when once drinking was still fun.

That's why I mention on the main page of barefootrunner.org that I
am
a "grateful recovering shod runner". I know that without finding
runningbarefoot.org and people like you, that I would still be in
denial and running from one injury to another. My rocking chair
decision for today is to make decisions that will not put me in a
rocking chair someday, but will give me longevity at my life hobby
for
years to come.

Barefoot Rick





Yahoo! Groups Links








Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023 jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399



SPONSORED LINKS
Nike running shoes Running shoes Running

---------------------------------
YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS


    Visit your group "BarefootRick" on the web.

    To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
BarefootRick-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

    Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of
    Service.


---------------------------------







Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023
jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399

Owen and Rick, I have no quarrel with anything you say.  My
question was really an enquiry as to whether the benefits of barefoot
running derive more from the form changes it forces, than from
being barefoot; that if you could get the same form changes another
way, would it be necessary to run barefoot?

Which is not an argument against barefoot running.  My plan for
tomorrow morning (always subject to conditions) is a two-mile shod
run to a lovely large field, five times around the field (five miles), and
two miles home, shod.  If I'm feeling particularly good, I may try one
of the last two miles in bare feet!

-- Jerry



On 22 Jul 2005 at 14:56, Rick Roeber wrote:

Jerry - If someone can run in minimalist shoes and maintain proper
form, I say go for it. For me, I don't think I could. I would revert
back to my bad habits of sloppy technique. Did I make a
generalization
in my post about runners wearing shoes and suffering injuries?
Probably. But, to those I would say look for the similarities and not
necessarily the differences. In other words, folks should take what
they need and leave the rest. It's not necessary that we all see eye
to eye. Since I have never taken the time to read into the mechanics
of Pose or Chi, I cannot categorically agree that the proverbial
chicken came before the egg or vice versa. I do know that many
have
benefited from both regarding form, and that is why I link to their
respective sites off my webpage. These are just my observations.
For
me, everyday when I go out barefoot running I am continually
reminded
of form because my feet tell me when my form sucks. Others are
probably smarter than I am and can wear
  minimalist shoes and maintain and improve form. For myself, I
think
  why should I since I get all the feedback I need from being
barefoot?
  Why spend the money?

Thanks for the thought provoking reply, Jerry.

BR

Jerry Griffin <jerryg@...> wrote:
Rick,

You know how much I love barefoot running (did five miles
yesterday), so I think you'll take the following question in the open-
minded way in which it is asked.

I'm wondering whether the choice you've made -- to give up being
injured -- was really a choice to quit heel-striking, to begin to land
in such a way as to absorb and spread the impact rather than
continually impacting your knees -- in other words, to adapt a
running
style that is Pose-like or Chi-like?  As much as I like barefoot
running, I'm wondering whether the benefits actually come more
from
the different landing that is required by barefoot running, than by
the barefoot-ness itself?

I have recently been doing some road work in minimalist shoes --
the
Puma H Streets with insole removed -- and while it's not the same
as
barefoot, I think it requires the same changes -- and gives the same
benefits -- that you ascribe to barefoot running.

I don't want anyone to give up barefoot running, least of all myself;
but I wonder whether we are mis-attributing the benefits?

What do you think?

-- Jerry

On 22 Jul 2005 at 13:03, Barefoot Rick wrote:

I heard a speaker at a conference (I don't think it was running
related) talk about life choices and the "Rocking Chair Decisions" he
had made for his life, family, etc. He continued to relate how these
were decisions that he would smile and feel good about as he lazily
spent his retirement years rocking back and forth in peaceful bliss. I
got to thinking about barefoot running and how glad I was to have
"run" across Ken's site a couple of years ago. For me, when I
decided
to run exclusively barefoot, was one of the biggest RC decisions I
have ever made. Ironically, I have a feeling that I won't be the one
reflecting from my rocking chair on the choice to run barefoot, but I
believe many others who cannot or will not give up their running
shoes
will be the ones consigned to a sedentary, rocking chair retirement.

Learning to run barefoot, for me, was not the easiest thing I have
ever done. If barefoot running was easy, I believe everyone would
be
doing it. However, most people associate something that might be
hard
in the beginning as something "bad". Most runners will continue to
take the "easier, softer way" which, in the long run (pun intended)
they will find it is the way of chronic knee, leg, and back injury.
There are so many people that I talk to who were once runners and
wish
they could still run. It's kind of like talking to a recovering
alcoholic who knows he has lost the privilege to drink because of his
abuse and thinks back to the day when once drinking was still fun.

That's why I mention on the main page of barefootrunner.org that I
am
a "grateful recovering shod runner". I know that without finding
runningbarefoot.org and people like you, that I would still be in
denial and running from one injury to another. My rocking chair
decision for today is to make decisions that will not put me in a
rocking chair someday, but will give me longevity at my life hobby
for
years to come.

Barefoot Rick





Yahoo! Groups Links








Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023 jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399



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---------------------------------







Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023
jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399

Rick,

You know how much I love barefoot running (did five miles
yesterday), so I think you'll take the following question in the open-
minded way in which it is asked.

I'm wondering whether the choice you've made -- to give up being
injured -- was really a choice to quit heel-striking, to begin to land in
such a way as to absorb and spread the impact rather than
continually impacting your knees -- in other words, to adapt a
running style that is Pose-like or Chi-like?  As much as I like
barefoot running, I'm wondering whether the benefits actually come
more from the different landing that is required by barefoot running,
than by the barefoot-ness itself? 

I have recently been doing some road work in minimalist shoes --
the Puma H Streets with insole removed -- and while it's not the
same as barefoot, I think it requires the same changes -- and gives
the same benefits -- that you ascribe to barefoot running.

I don't want anyone to give up barefoot running, least of all myself;
but I wonder whether we are mis-attributing the benefits? 

What do you think?

-- Jerry

On 22 Jul 2005 at 13:03, Barefoot Rick wrote:

I heard a speaker at a conference (I don't think it was running
related) talk about life choices and the "Rocking Chair Decisions" he
had made for his life, family, etc. He continued to relate how these
were decisions that he would smile and feel good about as he lazily
spent his retirement years rocking back and forth in peaceful bliss. I
got to thinking about barefoot running and how glad I was to have
"run" across Ken's site a couple of years ago. For me, when I
decided
to run exclusively barefoot, was one of the biggest RC decisions I
have ever made. Ironically, I have a feeling that I won't be the one
reflecting from my rocking chair on the choice to run barefoot, but I
believe many others who cannot or will not give up their running
shoes
will be the ones consigned to a sedentary, rocking chair retirement.

Learning to run barefoot, for me, was not the easiest thing I have
ever done. If barefoot running was easy, I believe everyone would
be
doing it. However, most people associate something that might be
hard
in the beginning as something "bad". Most runners will continue to
take the "easier, softer way" which, in the long run (pun intended)
they will find it is the way of chronic knee, leg, and back injury.
There are so many people that I talk to who were once runners and
wish
they could still run. It's kind of like talking to a recovering
alcoholic who knows he has lost the privilege to drink because of his
abuse and thinks back to the day when once drinking was still fun.

That's why I mention on the main page of barefootrunner.org that I
am
a "grateful recovering shod runner". I know that without finding
runningbarefoot.org and people like you, that I would still be in
denial and running from one injury to another. My rocking chair
decision for today is to make decisions that will not put me in a
rocking chair someday, but will give me longevity at my life hobby
for
years to come.

Barefoot Rick





Yahoo! Groups Links








Jerry Griffin  -- CFO On Call  --  4 Sheppard Place  --  Granville, OH
43023
jerryg@...  --  web site:  www.cfo-on-call.com
Office: 740-321-1188  --  Home: 740-587-3368  --  Fax: 740-587-
1612
Mobile:  740-403-6399