So lately the new rage is barefoot running as some of the shoe companies like Nike and Vibram are promoting shoes that protect the foot but add little to no stability. The concept is that the foot will do the extra work to function hence building intrinsic muscle strength.
Although we all look at the Ethiopian elite runners who run barefoot, I would caution those who want to try this ; that the adaptions to this style needs to be a slow process. One would want to start once a week and run short distances. Gradually increasing a quarter of a mile per week for three to four weeks.
As a side note, I am seeing a lot of increased lateral column syndrome and peroneal tendinitis in runners who have bought into the now rage.
Bottom line, be cautious with new fads, for those of us who love running it is very frustrating to be sidelined with foot ailments.
