See, Barefoot Running is NOT Bad for You

The media is an interesting thing.One day, they love you, the next day they hate you. As long as there's controversy, they're interested... ish.The last time barefoot running made all the news it was when the University of Colorado study (done right up the hill from me) apparently showed that barefoot running was less efficient than running in shoes (see my analysis of that study here). In fact, when that study got published, the media went crazy, practically insisting that this was the death knell for those of us who run unshod.So, I'm not sure what it means that they've... Read full post here

Harvard Barefoot Running Studies Support Invisible Shoes

What are the benefits of barefoot running?Well, Harvard's Dr. Daniel Lieberman has another answer. His studies from 2 years ago showed how barefoot runners who forefoot strike put less force into the ground and, therefore, less force into their joints.Now he has 2 new studies that have just come out that support how proper barefoot running form and minimalist running shoes can result in fewer injuries and more efficient running."Foot Strike and Injury Rates in Endurance Runners: a retrospective study" looked at college cross-country runners and found that those who heel-strike (landing on their heels first) had approximately twice the... Read full post here

Running Sandals for Health!

Yet another study showing how running sandals and barefoot running could be better for your body! Flip-flops and sneakers with flexible soles are easier on the knees than clogs or even special walking shoes, a study by Rush University Medical Center has found. And that's important, because loading on the knee joints is a key factor in the development of osteoarthritis. The study has been published online in the journal Arthritis Care & Research. "Traditionally, footwear has been engineered to provide maximum support and comfort for the foot,... Read full post here