Faithful readers already know all about barefoot runner Ken Saxton and the alleged joys of barefoot running. Now comes Saxton’s beginners’ guide to the sport. Roy Wallack, the Los Angeles Times’ knowledgeable gear guy, passes on these tips about a sport that is most notable for its absence of gear.
Never heel-strike. Land on the forefoot, with an erect back on a bent leg.
Quickly lower the heel so that the foot is flat on the ground.
Strive for a rapid turnover. The less time your foot is on the
ground, the faster you are and the less you get injured. Lift the foot
straight up off the ground
Run quietly.
Don’t have too much fun at first. Avoid RBES — the
‘Running Barefoot Exuberance Syndrome.According to Saxton, people get so
excited that they run too much too soon and get hurt, especially calves
and Achilles.