It’s been a good weekend.

Yesterday was full of stuff:

• A lovely morning run at Rutland Water Parkrun – in regular running shoes
• Bacon sandwiches
• Lots of people
• Cute puppies
• A fantastic massage
• Dinner out
• Chocolate twists from one of my marvellous nephews
• Frank Turner documentary

Sunday was slightly more relaxing, but equally full up with stuff:

• A 6.30am morning run – 3 miles of running/walking in the Fivefingers
• 2 hours at the allotment
• A couple of hours watching the F1 racing
• A spot of gardening 
• Some marking and lesson planning

But what was my decision I hear you ask? 

Well, my continued research into moving to barefoot running suggests it will take several weeks, if not several months, to be able to make the transition from regular running shoes without injury. So I’ve decided to focus less on running 1000 miles this year – currently on 535 miles – and concentrate on the extra rest days that the transition to the barefoot running requires. Decision made. 

Also, after my first ever leg massage yesterday, I’m definitely going to be getting myself a few more of those. Another decision made.

Cushty.

Second outing with the Fivefingers tonight. Still taking it slow and steady, as advised. 

3min running/2min walking x 6. A total of 2.6 miles in 30min. 

After Wednesday’s first run out wearing them it was the lower calves that were aching the next day, so I’m hoping for less reaction in the morning. 

Next run out in the Fivefingers will be Sunday morning.

Tomorrow: parkrun. 

Today was my first go at a bit of barefoot running. 

Cue a picture…which has been edited to ensure no-one gets freaked out by the whole toe thing…

Having taken onboard advice that suggests it is best to start off slow, I headed to the trails of Bourne Wood for a gentle bit of running/walking for half hour. Did 2 min run followed by 2 min walk for 2 miles.

Running in the Fivefingers was definitely different. Felt really good. It makes you lean forward more, land lighter and have a quicker cadence. 

Managed to complete the run without any aches or injuries.

So far so good. 

Look what arrived today…

My first ever pair of Vibram Fivefingers; in a very fetching bright blue I might add.

Now, during my extensive research into barefoot running, and particularly running in Fivefingers, I read on numerous occasions that putting them on is the first problem you come across. 

I came across it. You see, I can’t really spread my toes at all. So the whole process was somewhat difficult. But after much wriggling and pushing and manipulating and swearing, they were on. AND looking good.

I resisted the urge to get out and run, plus I already had a prior engagement. So, the first experience of wearing the Vibram Fivefingers was at home whilst I ate dinner. Now that’s taking the whole ‘need to take it slow and steady’ to a new level. 

Tomorrow: the first actual run wearing them.

I’ve been considering getting involved in the whole barefoot running movement for the last few months, and after weeks of research: websites, articles, podcasts and YouTube videos; I’ve finally decided to take the plunge. 

I’ve ordered myself a pair of Vibram Fivefingers KSO EVOs.

I’ve read loads of articles, some negative, but most positive, talking about the benefits of barefoot running. But basically, I’m sold on the idea that it is back to basics, our feet were not designed to wear shoes, they do the job fantastically without any. 

Barefoot running strengthens your feet and allows to to run more naturally. I love the idea that it is about connecting with the ground, about freedom and feeling, about lightness, about having fun. I’m up for that!

I’m very excited to get started. I’m also feeling that halfway through the #run1000mile challenge, on 518 miles so far, that I need something to increase the motivation. I’m hoping this is it.

I’ll also be taking on advice about the barefoot running journey I am about to embark on. The first being that because of the nature of running in shoes, my feet will be weak and unaccustomed to running without shoes, I will therefore be taking it very slow. 

Shoes arrive any day now. Wish me luck. 

I will, of course, post on here my barefoot running experiences.

To finish the month day 30 was a nice 5 mile run at the woods with the dog. Billy boy is getting on a bit now, he’s 12 years old, so therefore he struggles a bit when you get past 3 miles. Today was no different, I had to wait for the old git at times.

But we made it.

As for Juneathon itself…

Although I didn’t actually run every day of the month, I am definitely calling it a complete success. 

I ran 21/30 days.

I enjoyed the slightly more relaxed approach. 

Total Juneathon mileage = 108.5

Cushty.