Tracy Thomas (ultra runner extraordinaire) and I (race director extraordinaire?) made an appearance on the local morning news today. We were chatting about barefoot and minimalist running. The 7-minute segment is posted on the WCIA TV web site:
http://illinoishomepage.net/content/fulltext/?cid=139261
Also, one of our local runners beat the TV station and posted the segment on YouTube--thanks Rob! The video quality on YouTube is not quite as good as the WCIA web archive, but it's good enough for minimalist ultra runners (actually this video feed streams quicker, has no commercial, and displays larger than the WCIA TV archive):
Hope you enjoy the short video. I don't think we embarrassed ourselves or the club too badly. At the end there is a nice plug for the Clinton Lake ultra race...and a mention of the extra prizes we are giving out to barefoot or Vibram FiveFinger runners! Tracy and I didn't have time to get into the research supporting minimalist or barefoot running, but it is out there. Here are 2 good web sites for those wanting more information:
Lieberman and colleagues at Harvard University
Jason's "Barefoot Running University"
4 comments:
You and Tracy did a terrific job in the limited time slot. I must read that book.
Tom,
I think the interview went well. Hope it convinces some runners to try more minimalist running. Don't be surprised if a copy of that book makes it your way...fairly soon. But you still need to act surprised!
Hello,
I was just strolling through blogs today and made it here. I have to say it just reiterates my idea that everything happens for a reason. I've been running for some years but never consistently and never enjoyably.
After stumbling upon this entry and watching the video it started to make sense. I grabbed my New Balances and chucked my Nikes and was out the door. I couldn't believe how good it felt.
My stride was smoother and I felt lighter and stronger than ever. It truly does make a difference when you're not slamming down on your heels. Instead of drained and sore, I feel invigorated and determined.
I have always wanted a good running routine and I think I now have it. I just wanted to say thank you for doing your thing in your way and I hope it catches on. It can do wonders.
-Kayla
Kayla,
Glad you found the blog and enjoyed this posting. The WAY you run makes a huge difference in HOW you'll feel. Stay off those heels!
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