Third Week on Nike Free

Just an update on my progress with minimalist shoes and forefoot running...

As I mentioned in another thread, I am a flat-footed, severe over-pronator over 185 pounds.  The establishment says I need 'motion control plus shoes' with heavy cushioning.  After resuming training after a 4 month break, I found myself with debilitating shin splints.  Four pairs of shoes later, I decided to buck the establishment and go with something more minimalist (Nike Free).

After three weeks, I remain injury free.  initially, my 10K dropped 10 minutes from 57 to 47 min and continues to improve.  I've increased my 'standard' run distance to 10 miles, which I'm doing far faster than my previous 10k pace.  All of this with no injuries.  My gains might sound ridiculous, but you'd be amazed at what can be done with legs that aren't in constant agony. 

There are some significant advantages that I'm finding with these shoes:

1. The sole isn't rigid, allowing my foot to flex completely and spring.
2. Wearing shoes like this has forced me to change my form, improving my efficiency and safety.
3. I'm developing new muscles around my ankles and shins that I had never used. 
4. Freeing my feet from rigid running "boots" is allowing me to develop my stabilizer muscles and allowing my feet to move unhindered.
5. These things weigh like 6lbs less than my running "boots".  OK, not 6lbs, but they're a lot lighter.
6. I'm more in touch with the ground.  I feel like I'm riding in a high performance sports car rather than a heavy luxury car.

I think anyone struggling with shin splints should have a look at this e-book and consider whether their shoes are helping them or hurting them.

For the first time in a long time I'm able to finish 10 miles at a decent pace and feel like I could turn around and do it again.  I'm aware of all of the "benefits" that support can provide and I think it's all horse crap.  I now believe that the bio mechanics of the foot were designed far better than any running shoe, and all those shoes attempt to do is hinder your movement in a way that makes you run unnaturally.

The result of all this is that I'm now very excited about my running.  While I used to dread going out and beating my shins up, I can't wait for my next run.



Edited by DaveyG 2009-08-03 1:30 PM