Would You Ever be Caught Running in These?

Over the last few months I have seen more and more articles about research that is proving that our fancy running shoes are not only overkill, but they may actually be forcing us to run in ways that our bodies were not designed to move.


The latest of these articles, in Wired magazine (admittedly not a "Runner's" resource), explores the logic behind these findings and offers up one alternative for running "Barefoot". Enter the Vibram FiveFingers....

Now, look at these things. Would you wear these in public? They look like cartoon versions of toe-socks. It's like you just want someone to come over and play "this little pig" with your nasty little foot digits.

Style and looks aside though, I see why they would be perfect for people trying to ditch their expensive and overly engineered sneakers. Just check out the video below to see how much more flex your feet have. It is certainly a more natural motion.

So let's hear your thoughts. There are many of you who spend hours and hours running in sneakers. Would you even take the time to try these puppies out?




The full article at Wired is here. (Found via Lifehacker)
Click Here for Full Post

Gear Deal - 25% off for Runners

RoadRunnersports.com is offering a coupon for 25% off anything in the store. The coupon is supposed to work on any item, even those on the clearance portion of the website. Everything they sell is geared towards running.....but they carry everything from socks to watches.

If you need some new shoes and are hesitant to order online, this may be the place for you. They have a 60 day "No Questions Asked" exchange policy that they call the Perfect Fit Shoe Guarantee. Apparently you can wear the shoes, and even run in them, for up to 60 days. If you are still not happy with the fit, you send them back for a new pair. They then help you pick out a pair that would be a better fit for your needs.

The 25% coupon is CD19R54E. Just type it in during the check out process to take advantage of your savings.

And for those beginners out there, check out the Running Center for tips on choosing the right shoes and gear.

Click Here for Full Post

Rain

Seriously training in the rain is becoming like second nature. More miles in the rain tonite, more in store for tomorrow, and the weekends key workouts as well as The Knoxville Half Marathon will be in the rain too.

If it aint raining we aint training...

-E Click Here for Full Post

Training Tips - Running for Beginners

As you know, Project 11 is all about encouraging folks to start their own training programs. This can be a daunting task for someone who has never competed in an endurance race before, but there are plenty of events, for people of all different fitness levels. Sometimes it is just the shear act of signing up, or the pending event, that helps people stay focused on their fitness goals. I recommend that everyone at least sign up for a 5K race this year. Trust me. You may think that you can't run 5K right now, but I guarantee if you take a month or two to prepare, you can finish a 5K with no problem...Plus, who ever said you can't walk if you absolutely need to?

The following site lays out a great plan called "How to go from Sedentary to Running in Five Steps". It is a quick and easy plan to get you ramped up for a 5K in no time. The author gears the article towards someone who can simply walk for 20-30 minutes today. It then lays out a plan on how they can gradually apply a little more challenge, until they are finally running for 30-40 minutes.

Check it out. If you are having a hard time getting your butt in gear, this may be just the ticket.

http://zenhabits.net/2008/06/how-to-go-from-sedentary-to-running-in-five-steps/

Now get running...
Click Here for Full Post