Barefooter can still heel-strike

[BarefootDawsy]

Interesting slow-motion video from the NYC barefoot run shows a variety of strike patterns for barefooters and VFF wears alike...just goes to show that you still need to focus on proper technique regardless of how you're shod.

[SarahNZ]

Ouch! I get a real jolt if I start heel striking, prompts me to pay closer attention to form. I can't believe someone could sustain this even in minimalist shoes.

[bigm141414]

Yeah, I probably heel struck like 5 times my first time out and then fixed that real quick. It hurts.

[littleLion]

Very interesting video, thanks for posting the link!

I've only recently taken up running to improve my general fitness (I'm up to week 6 of the C25K program), and this week started experimenting with running in VFFs.

Holy guacamole, the difference is definitely noticeable! I do find myself using a totally different kind of stride, but perhaps that's because I'm so new to it and fairly conscious of trying to get it right.

I planned to start off gradually with the VFFs, just walking interspersed with a few 90-seconds intervals of easy running. First go round I pushed it a little too hard for my pathetic ankle/calf muscles and have been a bit wonky walking the last couple of days.

I do love the barefoot feel though. Since I started wearing VFFs almost everywhere, wearing cushy Nike runners feels like tying pillows to my feet.