Barefoot Payoffs

19 Sep 2011 5:25 PMBrendan Murray

New Project

Over the past few weeks I’ve been brooding conscientiously  taking time from pounding the pavement to work on my running structure. Aiming for big things in triathlon for me in 2014 is going to need solid base- a few things need to change. Over the past couple of years I’ve had improved performances but also injury from time to time. 

Combining my knowledge of conditioning & research on barefoot running principals if found  a new project for myself - to test out the 'Minimalist Shoe/Barefoot' theory.

 

Conditioning - definition

Pre trained awareness and performance into the muscles/organs required for running movements. When the trained ability surpasses the demand of the sports requirement competency is achieved

 

The Minimalist shoe theory 

When we are running with cushioning (shoes) the feedback of the impact to the body is getting distorted. 

Why?

Shock absorption is controlled by the brain and spinal cord after receiving messages from thousands of nerve endings on the sole of the foot. 

The outcome is weakened muscles that contribute to our running. Over time the motions we put our body through surpass the strength we have thus an injury occurs. 

 

What this all means for me is less help from cushioned sole shoes + othodics and more need for solid conditioning and recovery techniques. 

Everyday I’ve been strengthening my calves hamstrings, feet and ankles & core. Keeping up with massage & yoga. Its going to be a committed and steady process but I'm ready for it knowing it with eternally help my running.

 

4 weeks ago I started running on the hard sand and after only a couple of short runs my calves were a mangled mess. I also noticed how off balance I was. 

The soreness has been persistent, I’ve had to stay confident I’m doing the right thing. A quote from one of my heros has been staying in mind - “Focus on improving everyday’ - Michael Jordan

 

The Payoff 

Yesterday me and Stacey ran the 1.5km from home to the studio. It was only short but I got into it quickly and felt ‘flowy’ as i looked for little rises to hop and side step, moving along  on the grass siding the pavement. Then cruising along the asphalt of Hedges avenue (we were getting a few interested looks) it definitely felt cool!

I backed it up today with a trot along the sand and through the park at Broadbeach. This little barefoot venture has been a good excuse to get a sight of the beach in which I’d nearly forgotten existed despite both work and home only being a block away. This time when I ran I felt stronger in form- The balance from yoga and in my own training paying off. As i shifted to the grass of the park I wanted to pick my feet up and spring through with pace, turning the feet over quicker and using driving knees. It is so much better when you can feel the soles of your feet. And the hamstrings - NO PAIN. The payoff arrives.

Its been the right time for me to seek this out and made it fun for me, but id advise you don't throw your shoes and orthotics out. Take from this some ideas to add to your running training and like anything - progress with caution. Check out my new training session for runners that covers all the fundamentals you need www.mezzanineca.com.au/Strength_%26_Technique_Training_For_Runners

 

Emotional /spiritual 

As I’ve been working through my injuries I realise its my body shifting me into my new desires. As the old saying goes - Out with the old in with the new. We go through phases & as body & mind wants to get you ready to grow into your next period of focus, strength & flow. 

The initial effort to put into my new goals & desires has given me the determination to work physically on my weakness that has lead to injury. 

As i begin to become stronger and create momentum I begin to dissolve problems that have occurred in the emotional & spiritual side that may be personal, career or relationship orientated. 

 

Onwards 

Yoga for runners with Maria is tonight I’m looking forward to it. actually I’ve been hanging out since Thursday. Its time to up the yoga practice to 2x per week. Who is this Brendan that is in touch with staying calm?

Tomorrow Tim & I are running with the bunch from Kurrawa- (Check out Tim's run for a year blog if you haven’t already-runforayear.wordpress.com) I’m looking forward to it for 2 reasons .1.I always fly like a bird after doing yoga. 2. After my return to solid group running sessions last week I’m pumped to start my day with that and the chit chat to boot is what its all about. 

 

All in all i feel like i’m nearly ready to soar. 

 

See you wednesday night ! www.mezzanineca.com.au/Free_community_run_%26_walk