Mar
30
2010
30
2010
Fancy Feet
Filed under: Health, Healthy Living, Running
I’m feeling a little euphoric today. I went on a RUN! Yes! I RAN! What’s the big deal, right? Well…I haven’t run for many years because I have trouble with my knees. I was an athlete in high school and whenever I was on a “work out kick” after I graduated, I would run the treadmill at the club. Somewhere in there, the knee pain started. It disappeared miraculously during my military basic training, but then it reappeared. I went to a physical therapist, tried shoe inserts, exercises, etc. But, the pain still held me back.
I’ve always had a high metabolism and haven’t had to work too hard to stay at a healthy weight. I do work hard on eating really clean, but any form of regular exercise routine has been lacking since Matt and I got married 10 years ago. I’ve always wanted to start again…and I’ve admired friends who gain such joy from running (…a big shout out to my girl Heather…who just signed up for her second marathon! Woot!). Running seems so great for me because it’s a “portable” sport and a simple way to stay healthy! Perfect for someone who is living in a small space without much room to exercise indoors.
I read somewhere that people were having good results running in Vibram FiveFinger shoes (the “barefoot alternative)…even those with knee/hip pain. I was thrilled and ordered some “Sprints” from REI immediately. After trying a couple different sizes, I finally settled into my very own pair of “gecko feet”, as my friend Christine calls them. They are different….but good. The reason they are supposed to be better is because your foot strikes the ground differently when you run in them…they strike mid-foot instead of heel first. This apparently lessens the impact on your body…and that’s about all the technical stuff I know about them.
I love being able to really feel the ground under my feet. I’ve always enjoyed going barefoot…but barefoot can hurt!! Yes, I have wimpy feet. This way, I can have the best of both worlds (I can’t write that phrase without singing Hannah Montana). I’ve been wearing them around during the day as well…not just for running. I can definitely see more of these in my future. The Classic version is so cute. Oh, and this purple pair...you know I love purple.
I’ve heard people talk about the Couch to 5K program for a long time, but I never paid much attention. “I’m not a runner”, I thought. But now, I’m on board with it! It seems like a perfect way to start back into a routine. I’ve even downloaded the iPhone C25K app. On my days off, I plan on doing yoga and resistance exercises. This morning I set out on my first run…through the back country of Texas. The wildflowers were beautiful, the horses abundant, and the sunshine warm. The only thing about running out here is that people let their dogs roam free-range style. A very large white dog (resembling a horse) ran right up to me and freaked me out for a second. Luckily, he wasn’t hungry and he let me live another day.
I flew through the workout with very little pain and moments of great happiness. I’m sure I got a few weird looks from passersby as I belted out Beyonce, Black Eyed Peas, and Elton John. But I loved every minute. And now that I’ve told you all of this, I’m obligated to stick to it. Maybe someday, I might even run a 5K race!
I’ve started a DailyMile account…is anyone else on there? If so, be my friend! 
I love any type of tracking program…it keeps me motivated. I’m also trying out the Two Hundred Squats program for iPhone as well. I’m gettin’ serious now!
I would love to hear about your experiences with the C25K program…and any thoughts you might have on running. I need all the encouragement I can get…Run, Sara, Run!
Posted by Sara @ 9:28 pm | Leave a Comment
30
2010
I saw a post somewhere else the other day on these shoes and thought they seemed interesting. Alas, I cannot wear shoes or socks with toes. I guess I’ll just have to find some way to run barefoot! I have always gotten knee pain when I try running. Such a bummer.
30
2010
Love the shoes! I’ve been eyeing them for some time. I think I want to go to a store to buy them instead of playing the return game with the weird sizing. I’m thinking these would probably be better than the flip flops I wear daily
30
2010
Sara- You would probably really enjoy reading “Born to Run”. You’ll learn all about the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico as well as barefoot running!
30
2010
I have done the C25K 3 times
The 2nd two times, I started at about week 3. I LOVE this program! It is ideal for someone who has never been a runner or is looking into getting back into running. There is nothing quite like a runner’s high!! Happy Running 
30
2010
Sarah…you should at least try some on. I don’t like toe socks at all, but I love these!
Heather…I tried on a pair at REI in person, then ordered them online. But decided it wasn’t the right fit. The store guy wasn’t very knowledgeable. If you follow their measurements exactly, you should get a perfect fit.
Joy…I’m actually reading it right now! Loving it…and I’m especially into the fact that they eat chia.
Yum.
Sherri…Wow! That’s awesome.
31
2010
I suppose there is a very SLIGHT possibility they might fit me ok, but I actually (and I didn’t realize this until recently, since it’s subtle) have partial syndactyly of my middle three toes. So, I can’t move each of my toes separately – those three always move together. Really annoyed me taking yoga! I’d see all these people spreading their toes, and it just isn’t possible for me. Again, it’s really subtle – if I get the chance to try some on, I will!
30
2010
I am also reading Born to Run and eyeing up Vibrams. I haven’t been running much since my 5k in Sedona but I’m yearning too. I even had a barefoot running dream last night. This might be the push I need.
Btw – check out the Dingos on the mothering fitness board. Great group of running mamas if I do say so myself.
31
2010
Yes, what Jennie says!
30
2010
I agree with Christine about the “gecko feet”. They freak me out on that level. But knee pain is my nemesis and although I’m having trouble seeing how they would work, I’m intrigued on that part of it.
I HAVE tried the 200 squat program (and their situp and pushup ones too) and did really well for awhile. But it started really aggravating my back/knee/hip issues so I stopped. But I plan to do it again, more slowly.
30
2010
I had amazing results with C25K, and will be going back to it after this baby as well. I too had knee/hip pain as a result of my military service and had no problems with this program!
30
2010
For real, C25K, I started last week. I had some amazing encouragement from friends when we were home last month and I told myself that I would start when we got to AZ. Crazy, just crazy. I need new shoes, no knee problems but hip pain galore, I might just have to get me some gecko feet. I am going to check out the two other things you mentioned. I hadn’t said anything on my blog or FB for fear I would quit, but the words out now, so I am accountable. I still can’t believe that we are doing the same program…maybe we can run a 5k together some day
30
2010
I started the C25K in January and just finished my first 5K this past weekend. I loved the program! Although I gave myself a couple extra weeks to really master some of the harder weeks. I’m glad I did that!
Also, my mile was really slow (not a 10-minute mile; more like 13-14 minutes) so when the program got to times (20 minutes for 2 miles) I had to tweak things a little so I felt prepared on race day.
Good luck!
31
2010
Sara, I used the c25k while training for a sprint tri I did in 2008. It was fabulous. I loved every second of the race and when it came time to run I was so pumped with adrenaline, I flew right through it. At the end of the tri, I looked at my sis (my tri partner) and realized for the first time that not only had I completed my first tri, but my first 5k as well! Once you start, you will be addicted. I can’t wait to do my next one, now that I am not preggo!
31
2010
Hey, Sara!
My VFFs are on backorder, but I’ve been running barefoot for about 8 months now. I used some water shoes to get me through the winter until my VFFs get here. I’ve really enjoyed it- it has brought the love back to my running! After 2 years of nonstop injuries I have gained a lot of weight and so I could not be happier to be running injury free now!
I loved the C25K program. This time around I used a similar program from Runner’s World because the C25K timing was tricky.
Good luck on your running!
31
2010
I think you will be amazed at how fast your fitness will come back to you from H.S. We used to see “new” athletes show up to running club and they would say, “oh I have not run for years”. Boom they get out there and running with the big boys. Besides that you are young and judging from all the green drinks super healthy! Good luck and keep running, it is the best.
31
2010
Hey Sara,
My hubby just started the Couch to 5k program this week, and I am planning on starting after my baby is born and I get the go-ahead. How exciting that you found it too!
My husband was a runner in school, but has since had knee problems also. He just got a pair of Brooks and they seem to be amazing, though only time will tell. The Couch to 5k program is also nice because it starts you off a little slower than what most people would normally try and do, and helps to work your body up to running. I think this will help him a lot. Help those knees get strong before they get sore
Way to to!
dustin
31
2010
I just got a pair! I don’t run but have arthritis & injury related nerve damage..hoping for improvement & less pain! Thanks for sharing!
31
2010
I love the idea of the C25K program. I wish I could, my knees would surely explode! (Knee surgeries, argh). Have you seen the MP3′s where the guy tells you when to start and stop? It’s got some groovy music in the background. Pretty helpful for new runners!
31
2010
Sabbath…the C25K app for the iPhone is exactly that. You program your own music and he tells you when to run and walk. It’s nice
Although an MP3 would be sweet too so I could load it to my shuffle. I like to take photos while I’m out running, so it’s nice to have the iPhone. And, if I continue to get attacked by dogs, I like having a phone with me. Ha 
31
2010
I’m doing the C25K. I’m in Week 4 but have stopped the last few weeks. I just downloaded the free podcasts from iTunes. They just have generic techno workout type music so this app is awesome that you can get the prompts and still listen to your own music! I should also check out DailyMile, now that the weather is getting nicer here in CO I want to start the program again and need to be held accountable!
31
2010
GO SARA! I’m so excited for you. Think of all of the amazing places you will be able to run. Do you have a Garmin?
31
2010
I love seeing how these sorts of ideas seem to bubble up! I’ve also just recently started C25K with my VFF sprints. I used to run 5 and 10ks when I was younger (and was a competitive swimmer), then sustained a series of setbacks that left me thinking I’d never run again.
Since wearing the VFFs for the past couple months, I found myself feeling like jogging… and then saw C25K mentioned on friend’s blogs, and decided… what the heck!
About to complete week 2, and feeling *great*. Would love to join you for some yoga when we get there.
31
2010
I just ran my first 5K about a month ago. I’m definitely not a runner, either, but it wasn’t so bad. Instead of focusing on the run as a whole…my goal was the turnaround mark at the halfway point. I figured if I could make it that far, the distance would just get shorter and shorter. It helped my focus a lot. There was another lady running who was wearing these shoes. I tried a pair a few weeks ago, but couldn’t find an appropriate fit from the available sizes. Good luck and if your feetsies get sore…a golf ball makes a great massage tool if you just roll it around on the floor under your foot!
31
2010
the c25k is great…when i started i had never run a mile in my life [i started when phoenix was maybe in her 1st year] i did the program with a friend who was a runner and i really didn’t believe i’d ever be able to run 3 miles. never. but i did it! signed up for a few events, loved it, decided to keep going so i ran a few 10k’s, loved it and started working toward a 1/2 last summer. c25k is a great launching pad, it’s not too much yet just enough….if you can look ahead to where you might be in 9 weeks, sign up for an event, they are so fun and great motivation to finish the whole 9 weeks [isn't that how long it is??] anyway. enjoy enjoy enjoy pain free my friend! xo
[and ps. i've fallen off the running wagon for a bit, but am so excited to get back out there again, i will probably start up in the middle of the c25k and keep going from there....my favorite run was from our house to the first little town...glad you know what i'm talking about
]
31
2010
you go girl!
31
2010
Congratulations!
I’m a life long runner myself. The key to sticking with it is GOALS. If you know where you’re going with this it’s much easier to get up & get your run on.
I also have a high metabolism(and I’m vegetarian) & I’ve found that I really have to eat more than I want, in order to avoid injury. The best is to eat frequent small meals. You must get some form of protein in no more than 45 minutes after a work out, it doesn’t have to be a lot, a spoon of peanut butter will do in a pinch, but a meal is better. http://www.roguerunning.com has some good articles in their resources section. While you’re in Austin I recommend you stop by there. They also have free core training for runners the days/times should be under cross training programs.
& I love running when I’m traveling, it is the absolute best way to experience a new place.
31
2010
You might find this website helpful as the style of running your talking about (mid-foot strike vs. heal) is sometimes known as Chi running
http://www.chirunning.com/shop/home.php
I took a workshop last fall at a yoga retreat. I’m by no means a runner but after that workshop felt that it was something I could see myself doing and it felt more comfortable to run.
you are amazing… keep on rocking it!
31
2010
C25k is a wonderful program. I had great success with it a couple of years ago, but had to quit because of knee problems. My sister and brother-in-law were inspired by my success with it and took it up as well. She has run a 10k and he has run a 5k. It really does work!
I think you’ve inspired me to get back into it again, especially with the weather warming back up.
31
2010
Oooo! You are going to feel SO good! I just started running four weeks ago…was an avid runner pre pregnancy, and then…well, everything changed
I’m doing 2 miles now. I’d love to work up to more, but this suits my schedule and it’s a close loop around the hood! Good luck with your running! You go girl!!!
31
2010
We have a joke in my family that if mama doesn’t get out for her run before everyone else is up and about she is going to have a funky day
It is addicting, even in small amounts. Just being outside, independent of our fickle New England weather, is a beautiful thing. It’s quiet, by yourself, meditative time. I really recommend once you get in a rhythm seeing if you can leave the tunes behind. It is amazing the things you see and hear out there. And yes, it is one of the BEST ways to learn about places when you travel. We have a saying “Have Sneakers, Will Run”. I’ve run in some interesting places, all amazing in different ways.
I’ve never had injury problems even with marathon training and eat a highly raw/vegetarian diet! It can be done
There was thread on it not too long ago here: http://www.rawfoodsupport.com/read.php?6,130636
31
2010
Yesterday I signed up for my first ever marathon! I’m so excited but so nervous! I’ve been training now for several months. I’m not a runner by nature so it’s been good for me to push myself, plus, a marathon is always something I’ve wanted to do!
I’ve been struggling with knee pain so I’ll have to try those out. I’ve also found that rolling out my IT band helps (I had no idea what that was before I started running, but it’s a muscle that goes from your hip to your knee and if you have knee pain on the outside of your knee, it’s probably from that tendon).
Anyway, best of luck to you in your running! I hope you stay injury free!
31
2010
I love these feet and have wondered if anyone else loved them, too. Now I’m feeling a little more courageous about buying some…! (BTW: I have a little glass straw giveaway that might appeal to you!)
31
2010
congrats on starting the C25K! I followed that program a few years ago with great results. In the beginning I could barely run five minutes straight through but by the end I signed up for and ran several 5K races. You will rock! good luck
31
2010
My husband has flat feet, I’m going to look into those shoes for him.
Jana
31
2010
I did the Couch to 5k program last summer and loved it! I had never enjoyed running. In fact, it would be safe to say that I used to hate running. What made the difference for me with this program was that I would end my workout and not feel like I was dying. I’d finish and think, “Huh…I think I could actually do that again!”
In one summer I went from being a non-runner to being able to run a full 5K without stopping. (Although, I haven’t run in an official race yet.) Now, I’m recovering from just giving birth to our third, and I find myself staring out the window, dreaming of when I can start running again. It’s a great program!
Enjoy your new kicks and your workout!!
31
2010
For knee pain, the one thing that has allowed me to move through a run without pain is a foam roller . . . I thought it sounded a bit crazy, and it seemed too easy, but my roommate has IT band problems and swore by it, so I gave it a shot. I use my body weight as leverage and roll on either side . . . it’s amazing. And the foam rollers are cheap (not my blog, but explains the principles a bit) http://www.diet-blog.com/archives/2008/02/18/the_mighty_foam_roller.php
31
2010
I have done the c25k twice and loved it! so great!! You can “fan” them on facebook and they have fun links and discussions. Going to check out the other links everyone else left in the comments!
31
2010
I ran my first 5K a couple of years ago, and I followed the C25K program (loosely) to get ready for it. (I can’t seem to follow any program to the letter, I sort of do my own thing!) But I love running now, there’s something about running 5K races that is addictive. I experience knee pain, too, but I attributed it to carrying around a few more pounds than my knees maybe want to hold.
Maybe I should try some of your lovely toe-shoes! 
31
2010
Oh, and the music topic… College marching band RUINED me. I can ONLY run to music that is exactly the right speed for my feet! I’ve collected my own “running” playlist and “walking” playlist of songs that are just the right tempo for me.
And when I am running/walking, I go by songs instead of minutes. “Run for two songs, walk for one song,” or whatever kind of workout I need. I’ve also had good luck running while listening to sermons or audio-books. It sort of zones me out so I pay more attention to the message than the fact that I’m running.
31
2010
I really enjoyed Born to Run and finished it in two days–so interesting in many aspects. I ran for the first time tonight in my Fives (sustained, solo running, not just jumping around the yard with Oliver) and felt great after. We have a gravel driveway and that’s a bit uncomfortable to walk on in the Five Fingers, but the lane I ran down is mostly packed/soft dirt and grass. I haven’t run since 8th grade PE, but I have always wanted to be a “real runner,” meaning: Possessing the ability to run for more than five minutes without giving up and going home! I guess I need to set some tangible goals for myself and keep working. Thank you, as always, for inspiration and info, Sara!
31
2010
How ironic that you just did a post on 5 fingers! I just ordered mine last week and have a post all written up about them. I’m so excited to get them
From friends that have them, I’ve heard that they can barely stand to wear their other shoes since switching! Enjoy!
1
2010
I have heard about those shoes too, but not much. I have lots of thoughts on running. Ha! I’m on Daily Mile. I love that site. I’ll be your friend! And you can ask me about running whenever you’d like. I love helping people run!
1
2010
I’m a week away from my marathon and started with a 5k….so you can do it!!!! My running partner runs in Vibrams and swears by them. She has knee pain and they don’t bother her at all in her vibrams. It does take re-learning how to run since we’ve been conditioned on how to land wearing shoes. Your calf muscles will look fabulous though, hehe. As soon as this marathon is over I’m going to start running in vibrams and will hopefully have less knee pain too.
1
2010
i love the couch to five k! so awesome. running outside is soo lovely.
1
2010
Wow those shoes are awesome. I’ll have to check them out. This is my first comment on your blog, but i’ve been reading for a while now.
I would love to have your care free lifestyle! I’ve nominated you for a “Beautiful Blogger” award. Check out my blog to pick it up. http://passionatelyliving.blogspot.com/2010/04/award.html
3
2010
This is so cool. I’ve been visiting your blog off and on for 2 or 3 years so I stop by today and you’ve posted a running entry. I’ve just joined a gym after a long period of inactivity. Must be something in the air. Thanks for the inspiration! Reading about The Janssens is about like looking at a Rainbow.
P.S. Do you think a 56 yo caucasion man would look funny with a dread head?
3
2010
I have been looking into starting to run again and thought the couch to 5k was awesome! I was going to download the c25k from itunes but it’s only for the iphone. Do you know of any like that that you can put on your ipod? I need the little voice telling me when to start and stop =)
4
2010
Those shoes look beyond fantastic. I can’t wait for looking into getting my own. Thanks for the introduction to them!
4
2010
Just ordered a pair from REI (the purple ones, ha). I have really bad knees, and am hoping that I’ll be able to keep running through this pregnancy. I’m only 15 weeks, and am already down to 3 miles from 6.
Hoping that these will help! Plus, I’m sure I’ll wear them to my Pilates Reformer classes. 
4
2010
I definitely plan to get back to running. LOVED it when I used to do it regularly but haven’t really done it while undergoing infertility treatments. I’m eager to read more about the shoes-saw some at REI and might just go back and try them on
4
2010
I have a Nike chip that works with my ipod nano. It tracks my miles and time. I love it. Its designed to work with a chip that you put in Nike shoes, but I bought a pouch that I put the chip in and attach that to my shoes. I’m not sure if there is something comparable for the iphone. I bought it on the apple site. Good luck with your running.
4
2010
Love those running shoes! I’m not a runner myself (I’m an aerobics girl) but those shoes make me want to give it a try! (Or should I say “re-try” as I did run track one year in high school
) Best of luck on your running goals. It should be fun!