Just over 3 months into my barefoot running experiment, and I am wondering about my experience so far.
After 29 barefoot runs there is no doubt in my mind that some of my ‘usual’ injuries: runner’s knee and plantar fasciitis, have been lessened.
After my layoff in June, I built my mileage back up quite quickly, and would normally have been at risk from knee problems.
Three post marathon barefoot runs
Following the marathon, training reduced slightly, but not much. The Beachy Head Marathon was essentially a training run. The slightly easier running on days 2, 3, and 4 after BHM was finished barefoot, with half a mile on each day.
The Achilles problem is still very apparent, and I am somewhat torn between keeping the barefoot running going and giving the tendon a rest.
Beachy Head Marathon
Probably the 7th time I’ve done this and the worst conditions I can remember.
A bit of a last minute entry as a place became available only 2 days before the race.
Went better than expected, but it was hard work from half way onwards, the ground was rather heavy. Ran in Roclites with no problems.
The day after, my plantar fasciitis pain was less evident than of late, strange.
Long run around Dorney Lake
In Oxford for the weekend with a long run scheduled for the Sunday. Picked a route on the way home involving 5 laps of Dorney Lake, the Olympic rowing venue for 2012. No barefoot running over the past few days to give the Achilles a chance to rest. I am quite sure now that it’s not pressure from heel tab, but strain that has caused the problem.
The 18 mile run around Dorney Lake was done in
Barefoot run 25, a 4 miler
Took shoes off for the the last 4 miles of a 6 mile run back from work. It was hard though producing visible signs of stress on one foot with a blood blister. I think the feet have softened a bit due to recent lack of barefoot running. Achilles tendon is still slightly tender and has a small bump about one inch above the top of the foot bone.
Jog Shop Jog
After 3 more days off, I decided at the last minute to do the Jog Shop Jog.
Sounds simple enough, and the first 5 miles are. But then the next 10 are very demanding, up and down numerous lovely hills on the South Downs. The final 5 miles include a nice long gentle descent before another short, sharp climb, with a couple of undulating miles along the cliff top to finish this classic 20 mile off-road