Today I had my second appointment with Derek, my new coach I found on Coachup.com. The first time I ran on the treadmill while he took videos of my form to critique. His gym doesn't allow street shoes and I'm still not sure how they would respond to a barefooter, so I wore my Xero sandals and brought some socks to wear in the gym.
The last time Derek gave me some tips on what to concentrate on while he worked on a more comprehensive plan. Mind you the advice he me gave is specific to my body. He told me to work on pushing my knees out and mentioned activating my glutes. I worked on this just walking, due to my crazy schedule this past month. I found that when I pushed my knees, I tended to stand up a bit straighter and activated my glutes. When I explained to him the muscles I felt stretching during my walks he said I was on the right track.
Derek's plan for today was to start with a 2 mile run. I had nothing to run in, since my Xero sandals still bother me walking around, so I had to run barefoot. Strange how this gave me pause, perhaps since this was my first barefoot run with anyone. Derek knew that I was training to run barefoot, so it didn't surprise him. I'm not sure if it was because I was running with someone else or if the tips Derek gave me the last time but this was my best run of the year and my first two mile barefoot run. Though it was probably a bit of both.
During the run my right leg definitely felt some strain, but nothing that I felt like I was pushing too hard. Tonight after everything has settled down I don't feel the normal blister bubble on my right foot between the big toe and second. I do have a little spot now on my left foot that feels slightly off, but I can't seem to pinpoint it.
Showing posts with label barefoot. Show all posts
Showing posts with label barefoot. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 2, 2016
Saturday, June 18, 2016
Hike on Moosilaukie - 10.77 miles - 3,300 feet elevation gain
Today the plan was to hike up the summit of Mount Moosilaukie (4802 feet) with a small group of friends. Fred (50) and George (64), and I don't think they have every really hiked a 4,000 foot mountain in NH. Sy is a teen who has hiked with me before.
We got a very late start, heading up the trail around 10:40 am. Immediately as we crossed the road there was a wide shallow brook that had to be crossed. I simply walked across the cool refreshing water as the rest of the group headed up stream looking for a place to cross. They finally did find a down tree that had been made into a crude bridge. The trail was very soft under foot, I was a little surprised seeing how this was part of the Appalachian Trail. Though hiking about 1.4 miles we came to the new parking lot. The group wondered why I didn't park there. I had figured the lot would be full and didn't realize they had made a nice new bigger lot. I also sometimes don't think in terms of miles and just want to get on the trail.
Once on the Glencliff trail the ground felt much firmer, though still very barefoot friendly. The trail wandered through a few fields and I was asked if I was worried about ticks. I was actually less concerned barefoot since they would probably be brushed off or seen more easily then someone wearing socks or long pants. We soon crossed a few small sources of water which I used to cool my feet. Once I stepped in some mud that oozed between my toes. I was concerned at first that when it dried the dirt between my toes would irritate my skin, but that was not to be the case.
As we ascended the trail got rockier and I slowed down, but so did one of the other guys, so I still was not holding the group back. We were hiking at a very slow pace, but we were all enjoying out time out in the woods.
Eventually the steep and rocky section ended and we were now on the Carriage Road. The group decided to push on to the summit. I was concerned that here I would find the trail to contain more gravel, but at first it was very barefoot friendly, but unfortunately it didn't last. About a half mile from the summit the gravel appeared in the trail and stayed there for the rest of the walk to the summit. It is not unusual to see this type of hiking bed at this elevation. We had seen a few people earlier, but on this section of the trail it got a little crowded. I tried to walk as though the gravel wasn't bothering my feet at all, but did ask that Sy knock the pace down a bit. At this point we had lost the other two members of our group and looking back they were no where to be seen.
At the summit we got our picture taken. I was very happy to see they got my bare feet in the shot. Then we headed down to find our friends. Going down was a lot harder then going up. For one my feet had already hiked 5.5 miles (0.5 mile more than my previous hike) and I knew it was a long way down. Here I definitely went a lot slower, searching for the least painful foot placement, which I'm not sure I was accomplishing. We soon found our friends resting along side the trail. United we continued down the trail.
During the first half of the trip downward it was all I could to to keep up with the group and not slow everyone down. I once again thought constantly of how my boots made hiking down hill so much easier. (Upon arriving home I read about several other barefoot hikers that wear shoes on the downward trek due to the difficulty of hiking down hill barefoot. Now they tell me.) I realized that being barefoot really limited my foot placement and did not afford me any new options (beside mud and water). I could feel the pounding my soles were taking, and had a good feeling they would be a bit tender the next day. But the next day was Sunday when I usually take it easy and don't do much walking, so they would get a good recovery day.
Once the trail started leveling out I was able to keep up with the group and soon moved into the middle of our small pack. Then when the trail got even closer to bottom I pulled to the front and started to drag George along a bit faster. We came to another junction and we decided George would stay there with my pack and wait for the rest of the group, while I went ahead and brought the vehicle around to the end of the trail, saving them 1.4 miles.
In the end I did 10.77 miles barefoot. I have now tracked over 100 miles barefoot, either walking, running or hiking outside. I've walked a bit more, but haven't always remembered or felt the distance was worth tracking. I think next time ( I must be crazy) I'll try bringing some hiking poles. In the past I felt hiking poles slowed me down going downhill, but nothing can slow me down more than I'm going now, so hopefully they might help speed me up.
I did get a lot more comments on this hike. Most were encouraging. Probably the best moment of the day was when a hiker commented on my bare feet and then asked if I was Dana from Manchester. It was Ethan a fellow avid hiker who was a friend on Garmin Connect. If it wasn't for my bare feet we would not have noticed each other have passed each other by. Of course making it to the top and back while remaining barefoot was pretty cool as well.
On the road we stopped at McDonalds for breakfast and I hid my feet the best I could behind the counter and managed to purchase my food without any hassles. On the way back we stopped at a country store and purchased a drink with no problems and I'm pretty sure they noticed my bare feet, They were nice folks. Then we stopped off at McDonalds again, where we ordered some more food and we sat down to eat. They delivered my McFlurry to me and I met him half way up the aisle. I'm pretty sure my bare feet were very noticeable but nothing was said.
Sunday morning arrived and I knew this would tell the real story on how my feet held up.
The first thing I notice upon standing was my ankles were sore and of course the soles of my feet were sore as well. My calves were also a bit tight. But I didn't have to much trouble walking. The soreness in the bottoms of my feet felt more like a muscle sore, then it did bruises. When I probed the bottom of my feet I did find a couple of spots that could only be bruises. The arches seem to be where the most bruising was.
As the day progressed my thighs let me know they had a workout that they did not appreciate. I would hobble up the stairs, but most of the difficulty was in the quads and not the feet, though the feet did contribute a little. While I am not totally surprised my legs were sore, I hadn't hiked a 4,000 foot mountain in a few years. I was surprised my feet seem to be so doing well. I have heard from a good source that my feet may swell up, but that still hasn't happened. I'm thinking perhaps swelling of the feet might be more a result of exercise then it is of being barefoot. I'll continue keeping an eye on that aspect as well. Though during the hike my hands swelled up again, though I remember that happening in the past on some of my longer hikes.
Monday has arrived and I walked to work barefoot. Seemed like the feet were not as comfortable walking barefoot as they have been, like I've lost ground in toughness. While walking I now notice a bruise on the heel of my right foot on the inside by the arch. My quads are definitely still sore and I'm not interested in taking many stairs.
We got a very late start, heading up the trail around 10:40 am. Immediately as we crossed the road there was a wide shallow brook that had to be crossed. I simply walked across the cool refreshing water as the rest of the group headed up stream looking for a place to cross. They finally did find a down tree that had been made into a crude bridge. The trail was very soft under foot, I was a little surprised seeing how this was part of the Appalachian Trail. Though hiking about 1.4 miles we came to the new parking lot. The group wondered why I didn't park there. I had figured the lot would be full and didn't realize they had made a nice new bigger lot. I also sometimes don't think in terms of miles and just want to get on the trail.
Once on the Glencliff trail the ground felt much firmer, though still very barefoot friendly. The trail wandered through a few fields and I was asked if I was worried about ticks. I was actually less concerned barefoot since they would probably be brushed off or seen more easily then someone wearing socks or long pants. We soon crossed a few small sources of water which I used to cool my feet. Once I stepped in some mud that oozed between my toes. I was concerned at first that when it dried the dirt between my toes would irritate my skin, but that was not to be the case.
As we ascended the trail got rockier and I slowed down, but so did one of the other guys, so I still was not holding the group back. We were hiking at a very slow pace, but we were all enjoying out time out in the woods.
 |
| Gravel on the Carriage Road |
 |
| Two of us made it! |
During the first half of the trip downward it was all I could to to keep up with the group and not slow everyone down. I once again thought constantly of how my boots made hiking down hill so much easier. (Upon arriving home I read about several other barefoot hikers that wear shoes on the downward trek due to the difficulty of hiking down hill barefoot. Now they tell me.) I realized that being barefoot really limited my foot placement and did not afford me any new options (beside mud and water). I could feel the pounding my soles were taking, and had a good feeling they would be a bit tender the next day. But the next day was Sunday when I usually take it easy and don't do much walking, so they would get a good recovery day.
 |
| At the end of the hike. |
In the end I did 10.77 miles barefoot. I have now tracked over 100 miles barefoot, either walking, running or hiking outside. I've walked a bit more, but haven't always remembered or felt the distance was worth tracking. I think next time ( I must be crazy) I'll try bringing some hiking poles. In the past I felt hiking poles slowed me down going downhill, but nothing can slow me down more than I'm going now, so hopefully they might help speed me up.
I did get a lot more comments on this hike. Most were encouraging. Probably the best moment of the day was when a hiker commented on my bare feet and then asked if I was Dana from Manchester. It was Ethan a fellow avid hiker who was a friend on Garmin Connect. If it wasn't for my bare feet we would not have noticed each other have passed each other by. Of course making it to the top and back while remaining barefoot was pretty cool as well.
On the road we stopped at McDonalds for breakfast and I hid my feet the best I could behind the counter and managed to purchase my food without any hassles. On the way back we stopped at a country store and purchased a drink with no problems and I'm pretty sure they noticed my bare feet, They were nice folks. Then we stopped off at McDonalds again, where we ordered some more food and we sat down to eat. They delivered my McFlurry to me and I met him half way up the aisle. I'm pretty sure my bare feet were very noticeable but nothing was said.
Sunday morning arrived and I knew this would tell the real story on how my feet held up.
The first thing I notice upon standing was my ankles were sore and of course the soles of my feet were sore as well. My calves were also a bit tight. But I didn't have to much trouble walking. The soreness in the bottoms of my feet felt more like a muscle sore, then it did bruises. When I probed the bottom of my feet I did find a couple of spots that could only be bruises. The arches seem to be where the most bruising was.
As the day progressed my thighs let me know they had a workout that they did not appreciate. I would hobble up the stairs, but most of the difficulty was in the quads and not the feet, though the feet did contribute a little. While I am not totally surprised my legs were sore, I hadn't hiked a 4,000 foot mountain in a few years. I was surprised my feet seem to be so doing well. I have heard from a good source that my feet may swell up, but that still hasn't happened. I'm thinking perhaps swelling of the feet might be more a result of exercise then it is of being barefoot. I'll continue keeping an eye on that aspect as well. Though during the hike my hands swelled up again, though I remember that happening in the past on some of my longer hikes.
Monday has arrived and I walked to work barefoot. Seemed like the feet were not as comfortable walking barefoot as they have been, like I've lost ground in toughness. While walking I now notice a bruise on the heel of my right foot on the inside by the arch. My quads are definitely still sore and I'm not interested in taking many stairs.
Saturday, June 4, 2016
Tough 5 Mile Hike
Today we hiked up South Mountain in Pawtauckaway State Park in New Hampshire. For this hike Starry, Christian and I were accompanied by my friend John and his almost 9 year old son Noah. The hike 1.5 miles up the mountain was pretty easy barefoot. The trail was not too tough on the feet, of course I expected that hiking up hill would be much easier then hiking downhill. The kids had a blast climbing many of the huge boulders that are all along the trail. Everyone climbed the tower and enjoyed the view.
The trip downhill started out pretty easy as well. Had to take a bit more care where I placed my feet, but much easier than last week when I was guiding a three year old. The kids found some more huge boulders to scramble on and I began to think that we were never going to make it home. The boulders eventually faded and the kids began to get board. We did find a snake and toad to help distract them for a little bit. After hiking down about 2 miles the trail turned onto a gravel road.
Here is where the going got really tough. I began to slow down and try and find a safe place for my feet. The rest of the group didn't seem fazed by the rough terrain and pulled a little ahead. Several times I thought about putting on my VFF, but resisted the urge. I found a couple of spots along the way that gave my feet relief for a short period of time, and one nice cool rock that I stood on for a few seconds. So hobbling along as fast as I could after about 1.5 miles the rough road ended and we were back on a nice dirt road.
My feet were really dirty after the hike, but besides being a little sore don't seem to have sustained any injuries. I did stub my toe only once and it didn't hurt for long and seems fine now. Perhaps I should add a little addendum tomorrow morning on how my feet are doing.
That evening my mom and I were invited to join a pizza party for a friend who was visiting from Texas. I started to head out the door and my mother asked if I was going barefoot. I told her of course, she asked if I couldn't wear something, so I reluctantly grabbed my Xeroshoes. Funny how it doesn't take much to make some people happy. I wore my shoes into the venue and but took them off shortly afterward and my mom gave me a look and I smiled. No one said anything and she let me be.
The trip downhill started out pretty easy as well. Had to take a bit more care where I placed my feet, but much easier than last week when I was guiding a three year old. The kids found some more huge boulders to scramble on and I began to think that we were never going to make it home. The boulders eventually faded and the kids began to get board. We did find a snake and toad to help distract them for a little bit. After hiking down about 2 miles the trail turned onto a gravel road.
Here is where the going got really tough. I began to slow down and try and find a safe place for my feet. The rest of the group didn't seem fazed by the rough terrain and pulled a little ahead. Several times I thought about putting on my VFF, but resisted the urge. I found a couple of spots along the way that gave my feet relief for a short period of time, and one nice cool rock that I stood on for a few seconds. So hobbling along as fast as I could after about 1.5 miles the rough road ended and we were back on a nice dirt road.
My feet were really dirty after the hike, but besides being a little sore don't seem to have sustained any injuries. I did stub my toe only once and it didn't hurt for long and seems fine now. Perhaps I should add a little addendum tomorrow morning on how my feet are doing.
That evening my mom and I were invited to join a pizza party for a friend who was visiting from Texas. I started to head out the door and my mother asked if I was going barefoot. I told her of course, she asked if I couldn't wear something, so I reluctantly grabbed my Xeroshoes. Funny how it doesn't take much to make some people happy. I wore my shoes into the venue and but took them off shortly afterward and my mom gave me a look and I smiled. No one said anything and she let me be.
Sunday, May 29, 2016
Challenges of Hiking with Toddler
Saturday I went on another barefoot hike. This time a proper hiking trail through the woods. I was pretty excited to give my feet a test drive on the trail. For this trip I brought three kids with me, my daughter age 11, and two foster boys ages 8 and 3.
My first few steps on the trail were surprisingly soft. I could feel the ground give beneath my feet, even more so than a carpet. I eventually did encounter roots and rocks, but nothing that was too difficult for my bare feet to handle. The most challenging aspect of the hike was where to put my feet. In the past with boots, I had a lot more options on the placement of my feet and now I have to take a bit more care. To make matters even more challenging, I was holding he hand of the three year old who was constantly tripping and falling. Pretty typical for a toddler, since he even falls crossing the kitchen floor. So I tried to steer him onto the best path for his feet, which left me with a less ideal option.
Now add challenge number two, the toddler is not always predictable and will often choose the more difficult of the options in front on him. So he takes the spot where I planned to step and now I need to reroute my steps into even less desirable options. And when he did slip and fall his leg or body was often laying right in front of me, causing me to abort whatever step I had planned and take evasive action.
To me the trail is easy to follow and any person with half a brain should be able to stay on the trail. How difficult could that be. Well, I guess dirt, stones, wood, leaves, pine needles look nothing like a path to a toddler. Especially when they have been taught to stay on the sidewalk walk or paved path. Now I'm telling him to stay on the trail, he is probably thinking, "What trail!". At one point we came to a fairly straight section of trail, that was all swept out and only the bare earth showing. I let go of his hand and told him to follow the path. He immediately veers off the path and steps off the path down the bank onto the loose debris on the side of the path and falls. I pick him up and tell him just walk down the path, and then had to straighten him out several times before he managed to walk on the path.
On the way down, another challenge is as the toddler stumbles down the trail holding onto my hand, I am required to be slightly bent over, since he is usually slightly in front of me on the downhill side of the trail. Then as he lurches this way and that his 50 pound body is constantly tugging me in unexpected directions. Once again I need to change where I plan to place my feet, due to the influence his little body has on my center of gravity. It didn't take long for my back to feel the effects of holding onto the toddlers hand.
Probably one of the best parts of the day was early on in the hike, my daughter decided to join me in being barefoot and asked if I had room in my pack for her shoes. We also saw a handful of people hiking the trail and no one commented at all on our bare feet. The hike was a success and I'm already planning another hike, a bit longer this time, without the toddler though.
My first few steps on the trail were surprisingly soft. I could feel the ground give beneath my feet, even more so than a carpet. I eventually did encounter roots and rocks, but nothing that was too difficult for my bare feet to handle. The most challenging aspect of the hike was where to put my feet. In the past with boots, I had a lot more options on the placement of my feet and now I have to take a bit more care. To make matters even more challenging, I was holding he hand of the three year old who was constantly tripping and falling. Pretty typical for a toddler, since he even falls crossing the kitchen floor. So I tried to steer him onto the best path for his feet, which left me with a less ideal option.
Now add challenge number two, the toddler is not always predictable and will often choose the more difficult of the options in front on him. So he takes the spot where I planned to step and now I need to reroute my steps into even less desirable options. And when he did slip and fall his leg or body was often laying right in front of me, causing me to abort whatever step I had planned and take evasive action.
To me the trail is easy to follow and any person with half a brain should be able to stay on the trail. How difficult could that be. Well, I guess dirt, stones, wood, leaves, pine needles look nothing like a path to a toddler. Especially when they have been taught to stay on the sidewalk walk or paved path. Now I'm telling him to stay on the trail, he is probably thinking, "What trail!". At one point we came to a fairly straight section of trail, that was all swept out and only the bare earth showing. I let go of his hand and told him to follow the path. He immediately veers off the path and steps off the path down the bank onto the loose debris on the side of the path and falls. I pick him up and tell him just walk down the path, and then had to straighten him out several times before he managed to walk on the path.
On the way down, another challenge is as the toddler stumbles down the trail holding onto my hand, I am required to be slightly bent over, since he is usually slightly in front of me on the downhill side of the trail. Then as he lurches this way and that his 50 pound body is constantly tugging me in unexpected directions. Once again I need to change where I plan to place my feet, due to the influence his little body has on my center of gravity. It didn't take long for my back to feel the effects of holding onto the toddlers hand.
Probably one of the best parts of the day was early on in the hike, my daughter decided to join me in being barefoot and asked if I had room in my pack for her shoes. We also saw a handful of people hiking the trail and no one commented at all on our bare feet. The hike was a success and I'm already planning another hike, a bit longer this time, without the toddler though.
Sunday, May 15, 2016
Turning Point Saturday
It is beginning to feel more natural to be barefoot. Sounds kind of silly when it is actually unnatural to wear shoes. Unfortunately I was also told I had to wear shoes in a third store today. You really can't change their minds. They do not believe you should be barefoot in the store. It doesn't matter if it is legal or not. This time I was asked to wear shoes next time I visited the Price Rite store in Manchester. Since it is not a religious believe, nor do I need to go barefoot for medical reasons I believe it is not possible for me to be barefoot 100% of the time.
I have not given up on being barefoot. Rather I realize that most people do not believe it is something legal I can do. When I went to the barbershop on Saturday I carried my shoes and put them on before entering. The couple who run the shop are very nice, but I didn't feel like I wanted to test the waters and cause a stir because I had the right to be barefoot. The shop feels like it is part of the couples home with games and things for their kids. At some point when I visit and they are not busy, I may ask if I can enter their shop barefoot but until then I will put shoes on before entering.
My local hardware store seems to be a safe haven still, we visited there again on Saturday and had no problems or even a single comment. I'm sure they will someday bring it up. So I'll continue visiting their establishment barefoot. Maybe I'll get some of them soleless sandles and give them a try someday.
I have not given up on being barefoot. Rather I realize that most people do not believe it is something legal I can do. When I went to the barbershop on Saturday I carried my shoes and put them on before entering. The couple who run the shop are very nice, but I didn't feel like I wanted to test the waters and cause a stir because I had the right to be barefoot. The shop feels like it is part of the couples home with games and things for their kids. At some point when I visit and they are not busy, I may ask if I can enter their shop barefoot but until then I will put shoes on before entering.
My local hardware store seems to be a safe haven still, we visited there again on Saturday and had no problems or even a single comment. I'm sure they will someday bring it up. So I'll continue visiting their establishment barefoot. Maybe I'll get some of them soleless sandles and give them a try someday.
Saturday, April 23, 2016
Update after Two Months and 50 Miles
I've been barefoot as much as possible for just over two months (started February 17, 2016). I will reach 50 recorded miles of either running or walking barefoot in the next few days. So far it has been a very mixed bag. Not as easy as I figured and I can easily understand why many people choose shoes over being barefoot.
Saturday was another barefoot day except for one quick trip into the Walgreens that requires me to wear shoes to pick up a prescription.
The Bad
Let me start with the bad. Worrying you'll get kicked out of a store and then being kicked out of a store. You need to take good care of your feet (a good post for the future). So far I have gotten two cracks that have caused discomfort, one on my heel and the other on my toe. I've also had to remove two items buried in my foot that was causing discomfort. Some days it is just too cold to go barefoot. You need to pay attention to where you walk. People's perception and comments are not always that kind. It takes time to toughen the feet up and you need to proceed cautiously and slowly.
The Good
It is great to feel all the textures under your feet when you walk. The smooth floors as well as the rough floors are all great to feel. Not getting my shoes wet when I walk home, especially since the shoes would really stink for a few days after getting soaked. For the most part much more comfortable, yes there are times when it is not comfortable, but shoes can do that to you as well. It is helping me with my running form. Still got a ways to go, but I feel I'm at least making strides in the right direction. I'm learning to take better care of my feet and nothing serious has come of me being barefoot.
The Future
I still plan to continue going barefoot as much as possible. I can't let the bad distract me from the good. Some forums are filled with all the places that you get kicked out of if you enter barefoot. That is a shame, but I think we still need to learn how to live in the society we are in and for me going barefoot 100% when not at work may not be possible.
Next month I plan on attending a men's conference in Maine and I've been thinking about how being barefoot will work out. There will be a lot of people I know and I'm sure I'll get comments. It may also present to me my first opportunity to try barefoot hiking, since a group will take a hike on Friday. My vacation in July to New York City will be even a bigger challenge, or maybe not, since I hear they have seen it all in NYC and not much is said, expect I may have trouble at the tourist spots, we shall see. Yet I can not dwell to much on what might be, just got to give it a try and enjoy.
Saturday was another barefoot day except for one quick trip into the Walgreens that requires me to wear shoes to pick up a prescription.
The Bad
Let me start with the bad. Worrying you'll get kicked out of a store and then being kicked out of a store. You need to take good care of your feet (a good post for the future). So far I have gotten two cracks that have caused discomfort, one on my heel and the other on my toe. I've also had to remove two items buried in my foot that was causing discomfort. Some days it is just too cold to go barefoot. You need to pay attention to where you walk. People's perception and comments are not always that kind. It takes time to toughen the feet up and you need to proceed cautiously and slowly.
The Good
It is great to feel all the textures under your feet when you walk. The smooth floors as well as the rough floors are all great to feel. Not getting my shoes wet when I walk home, especially since the shoes would really stink for a few days after getting soaked. For the most part much more comfortable, yes there are times when it is not comfortable, but shoes can do that to you as well. It is helping me with my running form. Still got a ways to go, but I feel I'm at least making strides in the right direction. I'm learning to take better care of my feet and nothing serious has come of me being barefoot.
The Future
I still plan to continue going barefoot as much as possible. I can't let the bad distract me from the good. Some forums are filled with all the places that you get kicked out of if you enter barefoot. That is a shame, but I think we still need to learn how to live in the society we are in and for me going barefoot 100% when not at work may not be possible.
Next month I plan on attending a men's conference in Maine and I've been thinking about how being barefoot will work out. There will be a lot of people I know and I'm sure I'll get comments. It may also present to me my first opportunity to try barefoot hiking, since a group will take a hike on Friday. My vacation in July to New York City will be even a bigger challenge, or maybe not, since I hear they have seen it all in NYC and not much is said, expect I may have trouble at the tourist spots, we shall see. Yet I can not dwell to much on what might be, just got to give it a try and enjoy.
Saturday, April 16, 2016
Five Stores and a Friends House
Had a really nice day barefooting. Haven't had too many of those yet. Went into four new stores, the A Market, Home Depot, Music and Arts, and a thrift store. Plus revisited my local grocery store. That has got to be a record number of stores in one day, plus my first friends house.
I think the people at Home Depot noticed my bare feet, but I was in and out before they could form an opinion on what to do. I wasn't sure if they noticed at the A Market, but it is a organic food store so I think they would be more open about barefooted people. The music store we were in a bit longer and interacted with the employees, checking to see if my daughter had outgrown her viola and we bought rosin.
After those stores we swung by a friends house who had some clothing for Starry. Their foster child asked where my shoes were and I told him at home. A bit later my friend asks if I jogged, not sure if he was referring to my bare feet, I told him I jogged barefoot. He then asked if I jogged on Commercial Street. It appears he saw me, but was so busy looking at my feet he didn't notice it was me.
We went to the Thrift Store for an event where they give out clothing and toys to foster kids and they also feed you hot dogs and hamburgers. When we entered the store they asked what we needed and one of the helpers said looks like he needs shoes, but he said it in a light-hearted nice way.
In My Head
I'm still a uneasy about going into new stores, it takes some of the fun out of being barefoot. I know some barefooters will not do business with a place that requires them to wear shoes, but a lot of the places I go are very convenient. We also have the contract for the viola at the music store and would loose what we have invested in the rental program, if they refused barefoot customers. For some stores I do reduce my visits when they require me to wear shoes.
I'm still a uneasy about going into new stores, it takes some of the fun out of being barefoot. I know some barefooters will not do business with a place that requires them to wear shoes, but a lot of the places I go are very convenient. We also have the contract for the viola at the music store and would loose what we have invested in the rental program, if they refused barefoot customers. For some stores I do reduce my visits when they require me to wear shoes.
Saturday, April 9, 2016
Weekend Update
We had a cold, wet week and I had stomach bug on Tuesday, so my week has not been the best. On Friday I felt good enough and it was warm, though slightly damp outside, so I went running. Went 1.6 miles. I
t wasn't that great, very slow and almost walked at one point, but got it done.
The best part of the weekend was my daughter worked on her Raddish kids meal. She made a One-Pot Pasta Primavera. It had red peppers and broccoli and the kids ate it with only a slight hesitation with the red peppers. They also perfected the Whipped Chocolate Mousse that was a bit runny the last time they made it. When they were done, they cleaned up the kitchen and I cleaned out the refrigerator. Also, while they were cooking I gave the living room a really good clean, so the house is looking a lot better again, but still needs some work.
use code h3rwph to save $20 on a Raddish subscription. Visit http://www.raddishkids.com and check them out.
t wasn't that great, very slow and almost walked at one point, but got it done.
On Saturday was our boy's group Ranger Derby car race. We had been working on the race cars for the past several days and finally got them done Friday night. I headed out the door barefoot and picked up the foster kids mom. As my usual practice I entered the church with my shoes on and then took them off shortly after arriving. Not a single person said a word about my shoeless state. Things are improving.
I got some gas and while pumping my gas barefoot a friend was pumping next to me and we chatted for a while, once again no comment on my bare feet. My local grocery store still hasn't said anything as we picked up the groceries.
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| The pasta primavera with left over fish sticks |
use code h3rwph to save $20 on a Raddish subscription. Visit http://www.raddishkids.com and check them out.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Kicked Out at Walgreens
A BIT UNSURE AND APPREHENSIVE
I wasn't sure if I wanted to start the day out barefoot or not. There was a big JBQ meet at our church and before that was our men's breakfast. So there would be a lot of people around and half I wouldn't know. As usual, my shoes were in the van, so I walked out to the van barefoot, still not sure what I would do. When we arrived at the church I decided to leave my shoes behind and headed inside.
INSIDE WITH A LARGE GROUP BAREFOOT
Breakfast was just being served and some of the kids who had traveled long distances for the final meet of the year had joined the men's breakfast. So I slipped in unnoticed. Breakfast went by without any comments. After breakfast one person commented on my choice of attire, but otherwise no one mentioned my bare feet.
WALMART CLOSE CALL
I had the three year old with us so eventually he got restless so I left the match and headed over to Walmart to purchase Easter items and a few essentials. It was crowded and I made it to the register without any comments. The cashier was surprised they let me in barefoot and the lady behind me also commented, both though I should not be walking around barefoot. I told them I didn't see any sign on the door and that no law forbade me from walking around barefoot. Glass was brought up during the discussion and they both disapproved, but I was able to finish my purchase.
DIFFERENT TEXTURES
So I made it out of Walmart and we headed to the playground at our church daycare that had a pea gravel surface. I guess it is better then tracking in sand into the building. The gravel felt fine on my feet, but after a while I could tell my feet needed a break so we took a short walk around the building on the asphalt. Then eventually back inside, where the cool smooth floor felt really soothing on my feet. The only other comment at the church was when we were leaving, one of the visiting teens mentioned my feet would get cold outside, but I told them the pavement felt nice and warm today.
WALGREEN KICKS ME OUT
We arrived home much later then I had anticipated so I would have to postpone my Saturday run till Sunday. I then headed over to Walgreens I picked up all the items I needed and was waiting to get some photos when I was told I couldn't be inside the store with bare feet. I told them there was no sign on the door. I asked why and was told it was a health issue. I told them the state had no law, but they insisted that the store had a policy against bare feet in the store due to health reasons. I finally left my stuff on the counter and left. I did return with shoes on to finish my purchase. I plan to write a letter to the their headquarters to see if I can get the issue resolved in my favor.
CONCLUSION
I guess if you plan on living life barefooted you had better be ready for people to disapprove and to be kicked out of stores. That night I ordered some xeroshoes - the sandals so that hopefully I can carry them around with me and put them on as needed. Hopefully the will fit in my pocket when I go inside of stores.
FYI - RESULTS OF JBQ
The foster child's team took first in their division and my daughter took 3rd place quizer in her division, so both kids came away happy.
I wasn't sure if I wanted to start the day out barefoot or not. There was a big JBQ meet at our church and before that was our men's breakfast. So there would be a lot of people around and half I wouldn't know. As usual, my shoes were in the van, so I walked out to the van barefoot, still not sure what I would do. When we arrived at the church I decided to leave my shoes behind and headed inside.
INSIDE WITH A LARGE GROUP BAREFOOT
Breakfast was just being served and some of the kids who had traveled long distances for the final meet of the year had joined the men's breakfast. So I slipped in unnoticed. Breakfast went by without any comments. After breakfast one person commented on my choice of attire, but otherwise no one mentioned my bare feet.
WALMART CLOSE CALL
I had the three year old with us so eventually he got restless so I left the match and headed over to Walmart to purchase Easter items and a few essentials. It was crowded and I made it to the register without any comments. The cashier was surprised they let me in barefoot and the lady behind me also commented, both though I should not be walking around barefoot. I told them I didn't see any sign on the door and that no law forbade me from walking around barefoot. Glass was brought up during the discussion and they both disapproved, but I was able to finish my purchase.
DIFFERENT TEXTURES
So I made it out of Walmart and we headed to the playground at our church daycare that had a pea gravel surface. I guess it is better then tracking in sand into the building. The gravel felt fine on my feet, but after a while I could tell my feet needed a break so we took a short walk around the building on the asphalt. Then eventually back inside, where the cool smooth floor felt really soothing on my feet. The only other comment at the church was when we were leaving, one of the visiting teens mentioned my feet would get cold outside, but I told them the pavement felt nice and warm today.
WALGREEN KICKS ME OUT
We arrived home much later then I had anticipated so I would have to postpone my Saturday run till Sunday. I then headed over to Walgreens I picked up all the items I needed and was waiting to get some photos when I was told I couldn't be inside the store with bare feet. I told them there was no sign on the door. I asked why and was told it was a health issue. I told them the state had no law, but they insisted that the store had a policy against bare feet in the store due to health reasons. I finally left my stuff on the counter and left. I did return with shoes on to finish my purchase. I plan to write a letter to the their headquarters to see if I can get the issue resolved in my favor.
CONCLUSION
I guess if you plan on living life barefooted you had better be ready for people to disapprove and to be kicked out of stores. That night I ordered some xeroshoes - the sandals so that hopefully I can carry them around with me and put them on as needed. Hopefully the will fit in my pocket when I go inside of stores.
FYI - RESULTS OF JBQ
The foster child's team took first in their division and my daughter took 3rd place quizer in her division, so both kids came away happy.
Friday, March 25, 2016
Barefoot Evening
Thursday evenings the kids go to JBQ at our church. Today I once again walked in with my shoes on, but once there I took them off. The choir passed through and I ended up with a lot more comments then usual.
One lady said in a friendly manner "Put your shoes back on."
An elder of the church commented "Making yourself at home I see."
I don't recall the third comment, but it was still directed at my unshod feet.
It is very interesting on how many people comment that you are barefooted. I suppose it should not be surprising since it is not normal to see barefoot people these days.
Overall I think my plan is going to work, by the time summer comes around and I leave my shoes behind for good everyone will be so use to seeing me barefoot they will hardly give it a second thought that my shoes are not nearby. At least it will not be a shock to the whole congregation, though during services I will still wear shoes, at least for the time being.
When I left I just picked up my shoes and walked out the door along with another family. Nothing was said and it was starting to rain and the temps were just above freezing.
That same evening, while refueling my van at the local gas station, the attendant came out to sweep up a spill that was now under my vehicle, but close to my bare feet. With the wind chill it had to be below freezing and I could feel the cold ground under my feet. This person didn't say a word about my lack of footwear and we briefly chatted as she waited for me to finish up and move my vehicle. I know she had to have seen my feet since they were inches from the spilled substance.
Overall another good time being barefoot.
One lady said in a friendly manner "Put your shoes back on."
An elder of the church commented "Making yourself at home I see."
I don't recall the third comment, but it was still directed at my unshod feet.
It is very interesting on how many people comment that you are barefooted. I suppose it should not be surprising since it is not normal to see barefoot people these days.
Overall I think my plan is going to work, by the time summer comes around and I leave my shoes behind for good everyone will be so use to seeing me barefoot they will hardly give it a second thought that my shoes are not nearby. At least it will not be a shock to the whole congregation, though during services I will still wear shoes, at least for the time being.
When I left I just picked up my shoes and walked out the door along with another family. Nothing was said and it was starting to rain and the temps were just above freezing.
That same evening, while refueling my van at the local gas station, the attendant came out to sweep up a spill that was now under my vehicle, but close to my bare feet. With the wind chill it had to be below freezing and I could feel the cold ground under my feet. This person didn't say a word about my lack of footwear and we briefly chatted as she waited for me to finish up and move my vehicle. I know she had to have seen my feet since they were inches from the spilled substance.
Overall another good time being barefoot.
Saturday, March 19, 2016
Another Barefoot Day
Saturday dawned and I planned to have another full barefoot day. The weather wasn't freezing so I had a good chance of success. Also, I wasn't planning on going anywhere special, just the local grocery store where I haven't had any issues yet.
First thing I had to do was reattach my dryer vent. it had fallen away from the wall and I wanted to put some screws in a connection that kept falling apart. You would think this would be a simple job but it ended up taking several hours to reconnect the pipes and -get a couple of screws through both pipes. Glad I had self tapping screws. But while I was doing this project I would hop up onto the nearby washer to access the dryer pipe, it was nice to do it in bare feet.
Ended up going to the grocery store twice. Once for my grocery run and then my daughter got her Raddish package in. Raddish provides recipes, cooking items (this time we got a purple rubber coated whisk), shopping lists and a few fun things to do. She decided to make the salad and the chocolate moose. So we went shopping for her items. She had to find and pick everything out and I had the honor of paying for everything. My daughter isn't a salad eater, but she loved the salad she spent a lot of time and effort making, she even commented on how much work it was. The foster boy helped cut up some of the stuff, so it was a joint effort. The chocolate moose tasted great, though it was a little runny. I told her she will just have to try again. Later this month we will be making some rock candy and a pasta dish. If you want to try Radish for your kids, use code h3rwph to save $20. Visit http://www.raddishkids.com and check them out.
Ran barefoot and managed 1.5 miles and still working on picking up the feet and not pushing off. I pushed a little too hard if you look at my heart rate (146 average) but my average cadence was 159, with the end of the run dragging down the average. At one point, for a quarter mile, my cadence was over 164, right where it should be. So I have to believe that this picking the feet up has improved my cadence and I'll eventually get to where I should be all the time. The wind chill temperature was 34ºF and my hands got a bit chilled, but my feet were once again fine.
First thing I had to do was reattach my dryer vent. it had fallen away from the wall and I wanted to put some screws in a connection that kept falling apart. You would think this would be a simple job but it ended up taking several hours to reconnect the pipes and -get a couple of screws through both pipes. Glad I had self tapping screws. But while I was doing this project I would hop up onto the nearby washer to access the dryer pipe, it was nice to do it in bare feet.
Ended up going to the grocery store twice. Once for my grocery run and then my daughter got her Raddish package in. Raddish provides recipes, cooking items (this time we got a purple rubber coated whisk), shopping lists and a few fun things to do. She decided to make the salad and the chocolate moose. So we went shopping for her items. She had to find and pick everything out and I had the honor of paying for everything. My daughter isn't a salad eater, but she loved the salad she spent a lot of time and effort making, she even commented on how much work it was. The foster boy helped cut up some of the stuff, so it was a joint effort. The chocolate moose tasted great, though it was a little runny. I told her she will just have to try again. Later this month we will be making some rock candy and a pasta dish. If you want to try Radish for your kids, use code h3rwph to save $20. Visit http://www.raddishkids.com and check them out.Ran barefoot and managed 1.5 miles and still working on picking up the feet and not pushing off. I pushed a little too hard if you look at my heart rate (146 average) but my average cadence was 159, with the end of the run dragging down the average. At one point, for a quarter mile, my cadence was over 164, right where it should be. So I have to believe that this picking the feet up has improved my cadence and I'll eventually get to where I should be all the time. The wind chill temperature was 34ºF and my hands got a bit chilled, but my feet were once again fine.
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
A Theory for People's Negative Reaction to Barefoot Shoppers
I've been doing a lot of thinking about how the two people on Saturday reacted. The first gentlemen's reaction, I have already discussed, but basically he was uncomfortable with someone walking around in bare feet. He thought he could catch athlete's foot or some other fungus from my lack of shoes.
The second person, the store employee, I've been running through my head trying to figure it out. When I walked in, he noticed I was barefoot and then after a bit came and found me in the store to ask me if I had forgotten something. Then he told me I couldn't do that, referring to shopping in bare feet. I told him I didn't see any signs but he didn't seem to change his stance. But he was kind enough to let me finish shopping.
After much thought regarding my own limited experience to people's negative reaction to me being barefoot and reading other people's posts on confrontations with employees when shopping barefoot, I have a theory.
My Hypothesis
1) Most people believe that shopping or dinning in bare feet is against the law.
2) This law is per their State Health Department,
3) The law is for their own health safety.
Therefore, people who shop in bare feet are law breakers and may be putting our health at risk.
Results
They say first impressions as very important. So when an employee has a regard for the law and they see someone breaking the law in their store, they get upset and confront the barefoot person. It most often does not turn out well. Unless of course the barefoot person has a trump card like a disability, that requires them to be barefoot.
Barefooters Response
I'm thinking educating the general public on barefoot people is probably our best defense. How to do that is the big question. Perhaps contacting our favorite stores ahead of time with some education to clear the way for our visit. I realize this could backfire and they could formally disallow all future visits to the store while barefoot. But it is one thought.
A second option that could be used in conjunction with the International Barefoot Running Day and that is to use that event to educate the general public in not just barefoot running but shopping and dinning as well.
The second person, the store employee, I've been running through my head trying to figure it out. When I walked in, he noticed I was barefoot and then after a bit came and found me in the store to ask me if I had forgotten something. Then he told me I couldn't do that, referring to shopping in bare feet. I told him I didn't see any signs but he didn't seem to change his stance. But he was kind enough to let me finish shopping.
After much thought regarding my own limited experience to people's negative reaction to me being barefoot and reading other people's posts on confrontations with employees when shopping barefoot, I have a theory.
My Hypothesis
1) Most people believe that shopping or dinning in bare feet is against the law.
2) This law is per their State Health Department,
3) The law is for their own health safety.
Therefore, people who shop in bare feet are law breakers and may be putting our health at risk.
Results
They say first impressions as very important. So when an employee has a regard for the law and they see someone breaking the law in their store, they get upset and confront the barefoot person. It most often does not turn out well. Unless of course the barefoot person has a trump card like a disability, that requires them to be barefoot.
Barefooters Response
I'm thinking educating the general public on barefoot people is probably our best defense. How to do that is the big question. Perhaps contacting our favorite stores ahead of time with some education to clear the way for our visit. I realize this could backfire and they could formally disallow all future visits to the store while barefoot. But it is one thought.
A second option that could be used in conjunction with the International Barefoot Running Day and that is to use that event to educate the general public in not just barefoot running but shopping and dinning as well.
Sunday, March 13, 2016
Improving Cadence with Form
Last week I started concentrating on my form and lifting my legs up instead of pushing off and I noticed a slight improvement in my cadence; which previously had stubbornly refused to improve no matter what I did. I took a run on Saturday and once again my cadence was improved as I focused on lifting the leg up. Not a lot, just the a few steps, but my maximum cadence was 169, definitely a good sign. This run also had a lower average heart rate, since I'm purposely trying to go slower to focus on the form. I'm also comparing this run to another run on the same route. My cadence on this run was higher the at the beginning and then drops back down at the end. Makes me wonder if I started to lose form or focus, maybe both. Something to think about on my next run.
Next I compared my average pace to two previous runs with about the same average pace. One run has my cadence way lower and the other run my cadence is all over the place, but shows an average of a few steps less. My new cadence is much more consistent, even when it dropped towards the end it stayed much more constant. You can check out my runs on mapmyrun or garmin connect. Find me under hikerdana.
Next I compared my average pace to two previous runs with about the same average pace. One run has my cadence way lower and the other run my cadence is all over the place, but shows an average of a few steps less. My new cadence is much more consistent, even when it dropped towards the end it stayed much more constant. You can check out my runs on mapmyrun or garmin connect. Find me under hikerdana.
Saturday, March 12, 2016
First Full Day Barefoot & Two Disapprovals
FIRST BAREFOOT DAY
Today I planned to be barefoot all day. I dressed in my nice shorts and headed out. The weather was in the 50's, but it felt cooler with the breeze and on the shady patches of the sidewalk. Our first store was our local hardware store where everyone knows us well. Nothing was said about my feet, but they commented that it was now spring and time for my beard to come off. I told them it was on the agenda for the day.
FIRST ENCOUNTER
The next stop was the grocery store. I've been in there several times now and nothing has been said. Today a customer came up and warned me that I better not let them (meaning the store employees) see that I was not wearing shoes. I told him it was legal. He doubted me so I assured him that no law existed stopping me from shopping in bare feet. He was a bit surprised but eventually said he thought it was gross that I would be spreading my athlete foot fungus all over the store. I was a little taken back by that remark and tried to assure him that athletes foot normally doesn't survive on bare feet, but he turned off down another isle anxious to get away from me. Perhaps I should have responded that it is a good thing he is wearing shoes.
BARNES & NOBLE
Our next store was Barnes & Noble. We stopped at the help desk to get my Nook checked out and then headed to the sweets counter where my daughter got a soda and a free cookie. Then back to the help desk to find a book she wanted, but it was out of my price range this week. She settle on something more affordable. We checked out without any mention of my bare feet.
CONCLUSION
It was a very enjoyable day. I am getting more relaxed going about barefoot, even with the one encounter I had today. I actually felt sorry for him. It was also amazing how many different textures and temperatures your feet cross in a day and the shod never experience it. Probably the best part was my daughter said something about how she wished she could go barefoot and I told her she could. She was surprised, but glad I'll let her go barefoot. She still hasn't taken her shoes off yet, but hopefully she will in the future.
POST SCRIPT
After I wrote this post I headed out once more to my favorite neighborhood dollar store. Was shopping when a store employee approached me and mentioned I was not wearing shoes and then told me that I had to have shoes. He did let me finish shopping, but I cut it to just the one item I needed and then I left. It put a little damper on my day, but it still was still a good day.
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| After my first full barefoot day |
FIRST ENCOUNTER
The next stop was the grocery store. I've been in there several times now and nothing has been said. Today a customer came up and warned me that I better not let them (meaning the store employees) see that I was not wearing shoes. I told him it was legal. He doubted me so I assured him that no law existed stopping me from shopping in bare feet. He was a bit surprised but eventually said he thought it was gross that I would be spreading my athlete foot fungus all over the store. I was a little taken back by that remark and tried to assure him that athletes foot normally doesn't survive on bare feet, but he turned off down another isle anxious to get away from me. Perhaps I should have responded that it is a good thing he is wearing shoes.
BARNES & NOBLE
Our next store was Barnes & Noble. We stopped at the help desk to get my Nook checked out and then headed to the sweets counter where my daughter got a soda and a free cookie. Then back to the help desk to find a book she wanted, but it was out of my price range this week. She settle on something more affordable. We checked out without any mention of my bare feet.
CONCLUSION
It was a very enjoyable day. I am getting more relaxed going about barefoot, even with the one encounter I had today. I actually felt sorry for him. It was also amazing how many different textures and temperatures your feet cross in a day and the shod never experience it. Probably the best part was my daughter said something about how she wished she could go barefoot and I told her she could. She was surprised, but glad I'll let her go barefoot. She still hasn't taken her shoes off yet, but hopefully she will in the future.
POST SCRIPT
After I wrote this post I headed out once more to my favorite neighborhood dollar store. Was shopping when a store employee approached me and mentioned I was not wearing shoes and then told me that I had to have shoes. He did let me finish shopping, but I cut it to just the one item I needed and then I left. It put a little damper on my day, but it still was still a good day.
Thursday, March 10, 2016
In Shorts Barefoot
AT THE LOCAL SCHOOL
Last night (Wednesday) my daughter had an activity at her school. Once again I paused and thought, Should I wear my shoes? After some thought I changed into long pants and stuffed some moccasins in my pocket and went to the school barefoot. My daughter was great, she took it all in stride and wasn't bothered by it at all. Not a single person commented on my bare feet. I even spoke at length to several of the teachers and City Years. My daughter took a picture of me in the gym, which I'll post once I edit it.
AT TWO BIG STORES
On Thursday, when I arrived home I changed into some shorts and headed out the door barefoot in a lite rain. I dropped off the two older kids at JBQ, and headed to Hannaford grocery store, barefooted and in shorts. The store wasn't too busy and I really didn't see any associates on the floor. After I picked up the ingredients for a boiled dinner, I checked out without any mention of my bare feet.
After I left Hannaford I realized I should probably buy some cake mix and frosting for a birthday cake for my daughter. Walmart was close, so I swung into Walmart and picked up a few more things, in my shorts and bare feet. I even wandered around the store a little. On the way out I passed by a co-worker of mine, we only exchanged a surprised, quick, hello to each other as I quickly headed to the checkout. This morning I stopped by to say hello to the co-worker and nothing was mentioned of my bare feet. I don't think she even noticed.
AT CHURCH
After shopping I went into the church barefoot. I waited around until the kids were ready to go home. Now granted this wasn't the main sanctuary and I wasn't sitting there for long and I didn't really talk to anyone, but I still left my shoes behind. I keep telling myself small steps.
IN MY HEAD
It was a great barefoot day. The morning was clear, and it started raining off and on in the afternoon. I walked the short distance to and from work, and am getting really comfortable being barefoot. The warmer weather definitely helps, since I'm not so crazy walking barefoot when it is warm. I really don't think people see your feet are bare when your not wearing shoes. The mind sees what is suppose to be there, and probably assumes your wearing something. The best part was I managed to spend one whole evening out and about, in shorts with my bare feet completely exposed.
Last night (Wednesday) my daughter had an activity at her school. Once again I paused and thought, Should I wear my shoes? After some thought I changed into long pants and stuffed some moccasins in my pocket and went to the school barefoot. My daughter was great, she took it all in stride and wasn't bothered by it at all. Not a single person commented on my bare feet. I even spoke at length to several of the teachers and City Years. My daughter took a picture of me in the gym, which I'll post once I edit it.AT TWO BIG STORES
On Thursday, when I arrived home I changed into some shorts and headed out the door barefoot in a lite rain. I dropped off the two older kids at JBQ, and headed to Hannaford grocery store, barefooted and in shorts. The store wasn't too busy and I really didn't see any associates on the floor. After I picked up the ingredients for a boiled dinner, I checked out without any mention of my bare feet.
After I left Hannaford I realized I should probably buy some cake mix and frosting for a birthday cake for my daughter. Walmart was close, so I swung into Walmart and picked up a few more things, in my shorts and bare feet. I even wandered around the store a little. On the way out I passed by a co-worker of mine, we only exchanged a surprised, quick, hello to each other as I quickly headed to the checkout. This morning I stopped by to say hello to the co-worker and nothing was mentioned of my bare feet. I don't think she even noticed.
AT CHURCH
After shopping I went into the church barefoot. I waited around until the kids were ready to go home. Now granted this wasn't the main sanctuary and I wasn't sitting there for long and I didn't really talk to anyone, but I still left my shoes behind. I keep telling myself small steps.
IN MY HEAD
It was a great barefoot day. The morning was clear, and it started raining off and on in the afternoon. I walked the short distance to and from work, and am getting really comfortable being barefoot. The warmer weather definitely helps, since I'm not so crazy walking barefoot when it is warm. I really don't think people see your feet are bare when your not wearing shoes. The mind sees what is suppose to be there, and probably assumes your wearing something. The best part was I managed to spend one whole evening out and about, in shorts with my bare feet completely exposed.
Wednesday, March 9, 2016
Lift Foot Up - Don't Push Off = Improved Cadence
FORM
Today I found out what lifting the foot up and not pushing off felt like. I tried to run slower, keep the heart rate lower and focus on lifting the foot up. Definitely uses different muscles and my toes seem to like it better as well. I think I'll need to continue focusing on this technique, but I liked it while running. Though it felt a bit like I was marching, but that might smooth out with more practice.
CADENCE
I'm often a geek and almost always run with my heart rate monitor and GPS. I don't always pay attention to the numbers while running, unless I have something specific I'm working on. But I still wear it to keep a record of my activities. Today after my run I glanced at the numbers and was surprised to see a lot of little green cadence dots (cadence of 160 or greater) in the beginning of my run, before I slowed my pace down. My cadence has always been low so to see so many green dots was very encouraging. Even after I slowed down my cadence was higher than normal with a few rare green dots showing. Even going up hill I got no red dots (cadence below 152). My cadence held to a pretty straight line. My stride length has also decreased from 80+ meters to 70 m.
I am now very anxious to see if this trend holds, while I continue to learn this new method of running. It could be the breakthrough I have been seeking for a long time. Now it is harder then ever to keep my miles down and take it easy. I'm even more excited then ever to get out and run.
Today I found out what lifting the foot up and not pushing off felt like. I tried to run slower, keep the heart rate lower and focus on lifting the foot up. Definitely uses different muscles and my toes seem to like it better as well. I think I'll need to continue focusing on this technique, but I liked it while running. Though it felt a bit like I was marching, but that might smooth out with more practice.
CADENCE
I'm often a geek and almost always run with my heart rate monitor and GPS. I don't always pay attention to the numbers while running, unless I have something specific I'm working on. But I still wear it to keep a record of my activities. Today after my run I glanced at the numbers and was surprised to see a lot of little green cadence dots (cadence of 160 or greater) in the beginning of my run, before I slowed my pace down. My cadence has always been low so to see so many green dots was very encouraging. Even after I slowed down my cadence was higher than normal with a few rare green dots showing. Even going up hill I got no red dots (cadence below 152). My cadence held to a pretty straight line. My stride length has also decreased from 80+ meters to 70 m.
I am now very anxious to see if this trend holds, while I continue to learn this new method of running. It could be the breakthrough I have been seeking for a long time. Now it is harder then ever to keep my miles down and take it easy. I'm even more excited then ever to get out and run.
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Proper Running Form
My HISTORY
One of the biggest reasons I started down the road of minimalist running was I felt that I was running wrong. I would start running and then my legs just wouldn't feel right. After the thousands of miles hiking and with all the aches, pains, and injuries that accompanied those miles I didn't feel like I was being a wimp, I know when something was not right, so I would stop running. A year or so goes by and I try again and I continued to repeat the same cycle.
Along comes minimalist running and they talk a lot about form. So I try that style, and low and behold, no problems. Well, to be honest, I did have one problem. I couldn't run. Not even a block. So began my journey to become a runner. I've now have run a few 5K races. The only injury I got in the past two years was last fall when I was on vacation. I had all this wonderful time on my hands to run, run, run, and run some more. It was like heaven. Until I realized I had injured myself from running too much. Inconceivable.
Now I move on to barefoot running. They say you should started off running barefoot before turning to minimalist shoes, but I didn't. I think it has worked out well for me, but ignore their advice at your own peril. During the past two years my feet have built up some of the muscle that is needed for true barefoot running. For the first year my foot felt sore, like the muscles and bones were constantly being improved. And because I loved the feel of the ground so much I started walking barefoot (mostly on the sly) on the way home from work or around the neighborhood.
PROPER FORM
I now believe that landing on my heel and over striding was the cause of my problems in the past. Taking shorter steps and landing almost anyplace but the heel is what I worked on and thought I had my form down. But barefoot running is not as forgiving as running with shoes, even minimalist shoes. So now I read from more then one source, you need to lift up your foot and not push off. I'm not sure how that will look, but it might explain why I'm getting tough skin on the ends of my toes, and could be getting a blister on the bottom of my foot. I must be pushing off and not lifting.
BAREFOOTING
My runs have consisted of just two days. After talking with a runner I was told it is best to run at least 3 times a week. So I went out for a short run of ½ mile today. Then after the short run I took a walk, all barefoot. For a total of 1.77 miles, my furthest distance yet. I also walked ¼ miles to work this morning and will walk back for a total of 2.25 miles barefoot today. A new records which will easily be broken soon.
One of the biggest reasons I started down the road of minimalist running was I felt that I was running wrong. I would start running and then my legs just wouldn't feel right. After the thousands of miles hiking and with all the aches, pains, and injuries that accompanied those miles I didn't feel like I was being a wimp, I know when something was not right, so I would stop running. A year or so goes by and I try again and I continued to repeat the same cycle.
Along comes minimalist running and they talk a lot about form. So I try that style, and low and behold, no problems. Well, to be honest, I did have one problem. I couldn't run. Not even a block. So began my journey to become a runner. I've now have run a few 5K races. The only injury I got in the past two years was last fall when I was on vacation. I had all this wonderful time on my hands to run, run, run, and run some more. It was like heaven. Until I realized I had injured myself from running too much. Inconceivable.
Now I move on to barefoot running. They say you should started off running barefoot before turning to minimalist shoes, but I didn't. I think it has worked out well for me, but ignore their advice at your own peril. During the past two years my feet have built up some of the muscle that is needed for true barefoot running. For the first year my foot felt sore, like the muscles and bones were constantly being improved. And because I loved the feel of the ground so much I started walking barefoot (mostly on the sly) on the way home from work or around the neighborhood.
PROPER FORM
I now believe that landing on my heel and over striding was the cause of my problems in the past. Taking shorter steps and landing almost anyplace but the heel is what I worked on and thought I had my form down. But barefoot running is not as forgiving as running with shoes, even minimalist shoes. So now I read from more then one source, you need to lift up your foot and not push off. I'm not sure how that will look, but it might explain why I'm getting tough skin on the ends of my toes, and could be getting a blister on the bottom of my foot. I must be pushing off and not lifting.
BAREFOOTING
My runs have consisted of just two days. After talking with a runner I was told it is best to run at least 3 times a week. So I went out for a short run of ½ mile today. Then after the short run I took a walk, all barefoot. For a total of 1.77 miles, my furthest distance yet. I also walked ¼ miles to work this morning and will walk back for a total of 2.25 miles barefoot today. A new records which will easily be broken soon.
Sunday, March 6, 2016
Feet Warm - Hands Cold
RUNNING
Today I went for my Sunday run and it was soooo nice. The pavement felt warm beneath my soles. The only thing I notice was a slight discomfort on my middle toe on the right foot. I haven't figured out what it was, probably just still getting use to running barefoot. On the other hand, my hands were noticeably cold, guess I should have worn some light gloves or maybe a hat. My time is still pretty steady at around 12 minute mile, but heart rate is at running at least at 80% of maximum capacity. So I probably should start going at a slower pace more often. Especially since I want to increase my running to 3 times a week.
ALMOST FREEZING TEMPERATURE
I had thought the temperatures for the day were going to be in the 40's, but since my hands felt so cold I look at my Garmin running report and the temperature was 39ºF with 6 mph winds which converts to 35ºF temperature, just a few degrees above freezing and my bare feet was very comfortable. I love that my feet were fine and find it interesting that my hands were the ones having a problem.
STORE & CHURCH
Visited the neighborhood grocery store again with no problems and I'm starting to feeling more relaxed. Church in the morning I put my shoes on in the van upon arriving and took them off upon returning to the van. I haven't figure out how to handle this one since I attend church with my mom. My mom was instrumental in starting this church and I want to be respectful, so I'll play this one by ear. In the evening I go back to the church and work with the boys group. I wear my shoes into the church but then after the meeting starts I take them off, but have them sitting by my chair. I think come summer when others start wearing their flip flops I'll leave the shoes at home.
Today I went for my Sunday run and it was soooo nice. The pavement felt warm beneath my soles. The only thing I notice was a slight discomfort on my middle toe on the right foot. I haven't figured out what it was, probably just still getting use to running barefoot. On the other hand, my hands were noticeably cold, guess I should have worn some light gloves or maybe a hat. My time is still pretty steady at around 12 minute mile, but heart rate is at running at least at 80% of maximum capacity. So I probably should start going at a slower pace more often. Especially since I want to increase my running to 3 times a week.
ALMOST FREEZING TEMPERATURE
I had thought the temperatures for the day were going to be in the 40's, but since my hands felt so cold I look at my Garmin running report and the temperature was 39ºF with 6 mph winds which converts to 35ºF temperature, just a few degrees above freezing and my bare feet was very comfortable. I love that my feet were fine and find it interesting that my hands were the ones having a problem.
STORE & CHURCH
Visited the neighborhood grocery store again with no problems and I'm starting to feeling more relaxed. Church in the morning I put my shoes on in the van upon arriving and took them off upon returning to the van. I haven't figure out how to handle this one since I attend church with my mom. My mom was instrumental in starting this church and I want to be respectful, so I'll play this one by ear. In the evening I go back to the church and work with the boys group. I wear my shoes into the church but then after the meeting starts I take them off, but have them sitting by my chair. I think come summer when others start wearing their flip flops I'll leave the shoes at home.
Saturday, March 5, 2016
Mostly Barefoot Day
THE DAY
This morning my daughter and foster child had a JBQ meet at our church. It was on the cold side and the building has a cold floor, and would be full of people I know; so I put my shoes on. I wore my Tune Footwear, an affordable, true barefoot style shoe. After a while I removed my shoes and walked around barefoot. Then they went back on a few times, but eventually I just left them off and put them in my little backpack. I ate at the luncheon barefoot and nothing was said, until I was leaving. Then a friend of my mothers caught me sneaking out and asked me where my shoes where. I told it was nice out and my shoes were in my pack. I'm sure my mom will hear about it.
At the end of the day I had to bring my daughters friend home and I went with my shorts and barefoot. It was close to freezing, but you just don't pay it much attention, just like you ignore the discomfort of shoes. The friend commented on it and I'm not sure the mom noticed when I dropped her off at the door,
FAMILY VIEWS
While my mom does not agree with my choice of going shoeless, she has so far been good about it. I don't think she realizes I want to give up shoes completely as possible. But she is not giving me a hard time, yet. My sister on the other hand has been supportive and has joked with me that first the shoes then the clothes. I'll have to remind her that naturalists almost always wear shoes.
FEET FEEL USED
Saturday night after I went to bed I could feel that my feet had some exercise. They had that nice feeling like when you've done a little bit more of physical work then you are use to. It was only due to the stillness of the night and my relaxed state that I was able to notice it. I was a bit surprised considering that I usually walk around the house and yard barefoot and have been using minimalist shoes almost exclusively for the past two years. A reminder once again that I need to take this slow and easy.
COMING UP
This coming week is looking really warm. Can't wait. Next Saturday the temperature is suppose to stay warm and I should have my first day completely barefoot. We already have a trip to the hardware store to pick up some glue for my daughters dollhouse.
This morning my daughter and foster child had a JBQ meet at our church. It was on the cold side and the building has a cold floor, and would be full of people I know; so I put my shoes on. I wore my Tune Footwear, an affordable, true barefoot style shoe. After a while I removed my shoes and walked around barefoot. Then they went back on a few times, but eventually I just left them off and put them in my little backpack. I ate at the luncheon barefoot and nothing was said, until I was leaving. Then a friend of my mothers caught me sneaking out and asked me where my shoes where. I told it was nice out and my shoes were in my pack. I'm sure my mom will hear about it.
 |
| Tune Boat Shoe |
At the end of the day I had to bring my daughters friend home and I went with my shorts and barefoot. It was close to freezing, but you just don't pay it much attention, just like you ignore the discomfort of shoes. The friend commented on it and I'm not sure the mom noticed when I dropped her off at the door,
While my mom does not agree with my choice of going shoeless, she has so far been good about it. I don't think she realizes I want to give up shoes completely as possible. But she is not giving me a hard time, yet. My sister on the other hand has been supportive and has joked with me that first the shoes then the clothes. I'll have to remind her that naturalists almost always wear shoes.
FEET FEEL USED
Saturday night after I went to bed I could feel that my feet had some exercise. They had that nice feeling like when you've done a little bit more of physical work then you are use to. It was only due to the stillness of the night and my relaxed state that I was able to notice it. I was a bit surprised considering that I usually walk around the house and yard barefoot and have been using minimalist shoes almost exclusively for the past two years. A reminder once again that I need to take this slow and easy.
COMING UP
This coming week is looking really warm. Can't wait. Next Saturday the temperature is suppose to stay warm and I should have my first day completely barefoot. We already have a trip to the hardware store to pick up some glue for my daughters dollhouse.
Thursday, March 3, 2016
Running in Freezing Weather
RUNNING
Today temperatures at around 1:00 pm was 27ºF, winds at 8 mph, giving us a wind chill of 18ºF, definitely below freezing and it was time for my run. After some additional thinking I had decided to create a new route that would be more of an out and back run, instead of straight out and then walk back. This would allow me to get back to my base quicker. I also planned only to be barefoot for the run.
Since I'm still not ready to expose my barefoot preference to my co-workers, I once again headed away from work before finding a nice, new, black section of asphalt where I could slip off my shoes. The pavement was surprisingly warm (or maybe not too surprising), but alas, it would be the only nice and warm piece of pavement I would feel on my run.
As I ran I definitely could tell it was cold, but I didn't feel like I was pushing any boundaries. A little discomfort and I've read that after 12 minutes or so that would go away. It is like those times when you think, maybe I should have worn a hat or jacket. Nothing you can't handle and I would be running for only 1 mile. Now on the other hand while my feet were doing okay, my lungs had a much harder time adapting to running in the cold (the cold induced asthma was appearing). I finished the run in the normal amount of time. I am very happy with the results and doubt I would have run any better with shoes.
I felt like I could have done more, but I was told you need to take it slow and easy to start, so I am heeding that advice. I had a plan to put my socks and shoes on when the mile run was up and that is what I did. I'm not only taking it easy to give my feet a chance to adapt, I want to gradually increase my running miles for my legs, using the 10% increase per week rule for runners. In some ways I'm fortunate I don't have a high running mileage base with the legs itching to go. Legs and feet are both have equal experience and will adapt together.
STORE
This evening I did go to Wal-Mart but it was too cold for me to be walking barefoot, so I wore my shoes. While I was in Wal-Mart I just had to touch the floor with my barefoot and it felt as cold if not colder then the pavement outside during my run. I'm so glad I didn't go barefoot into the store.
Today temperatures at around 1:00 pm was 27ºF, winds at 8 mph, giving us a wind chill of 18ºF, definitely below freezing and it was time for my run. After some additional thinking I had decided to create a new route that would be more of an out and back run, instead of straight out and then walk back. This would allow me to get back to my base quicker. I also planned only to be barefoot for the run.
Since I'm still not ready to expose my barefoot preference to my co-workers, I once again headed away from work before finding a nice, new, black section of asphalt where I could slip off my shoes. The pavement was surprisingly warm (or maybe not too surprising), but alas, it would be the only nice and warm piece of pavement I would feel on my run.
As I ran I definitely could tell it was cold, but I didn't feel like I was pushing any boundaries. A little discomfort and I've read that after 12 minutes or so that would go away. It is like those times when you think, maybe I should have worn a hat or jacket. Nothing you can't handle and I would be running for only 1 mile. Now on the other hand while my feet were doing okay, my lungs had a much harder time adapting to running in the cold (the cold induced asthma was appearing). I finished the run in the normal amount of time. I am very happy with the results and doubt I would have run any better with shoes.
I felt like I could have done more, but I was told you need to take it slow and easy to start, so I am heeding that advice. I had a plan to put my socks and shoes on when the mile run was up and that is what I did. I'm not only taking it easy to give my feet a chance to adapt, I want to gradually increase my running miles for my legs, using the 10% increase per week rule for runners. In some ways I'm fortunate I don't have a high running mileage base with the legs itching to go. Legs and feet are both have equal experience and will adapt together.
STORE
This evening I did go to Wal-Mart but it was too cold for me to be walking barefoot, so I wore my shoes. While I was in Wal-Mart I just had to touch the floor with my barefoot and it felt as cold if not colder then the pavement outside during my run. I'm so glad I didn't go barefoot into the store.
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