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Two weeks ago I went barefoot.  I bought Vibram Five Finger Shoes and have been using them off and on since.  I have heard that it can be tough on a foot used to the cushy embrace of a sneaker to all of a sudden dive into running unshod.  Since you’re arch and ankle have no support, muscles rarely used need to take up the slack.  I’m certainly feeling it.  And I’m loving it.

Yesterday, I ran for the first time.  Just a mile on a track but it was a very revealing experience.  The trick to the shoes is to change your running style to forefoot striking instead of heel striking.  As I ran, some of my steps were clearly heel striking, and without any padding they were quite jarring to my body.  However, every now and then, I would get a wonderful forefoot strike that felt absolutely perfect.  I’ve got a long way to go to fully change my running style.  I can absolutely see how people could injure themselves with these shoes if they weren’t careful.  Today my calves are burning for what feels like the first time in my life.  My ankles and feet are aching in completely new places.  And I’m loving it.