My arch didn't seem to bug me all weekend after the 16-miler on Saturday, but I still think I need to do a little preventive training. There is plenty of controversy right now about barefoot running, and I am aware of the pitfalls of it, but I still believe that a small amount of running on the grass helps strengthen muscles and tendons in a way that can help prevent injury. Until proven otherwise, I think I'll try to work in at least 4-6 miles per week in my Vibrams, but only on soft surfaces. Today's run was at Sunnyside Park. It felt great to be running in the Vibrams and I didn't notice any pain anywhere. The only complaint I have is that I run a lot slower when I wear the Vibrams than when I wear my trainers. That may be related to the fact that I'm running on grass that is sometimes long, but my average pace is almost a full minute per mile slower than my normal recovery day pace.
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