With marathons becoming more and more popular, it’s time for all you veteran runners out there to level up. Now that you have the best shoes for your running stance and arch, improve your form even more by throwing your shoes away. Nope. I’m not kidding.

By Denise V. Suarez

Barefoot running, just like the name suggests, is running without anything on your feet. Since this isn’t practical for us city-dwellers, we have minimalist running. Minimalist running is when you wear thin-soled footwear to protect your feet from cuts and scratches. Vibram Five Fingers, a minimalist shoe brand, recently opened their first stall in Power Plant Mall. Wearing minimalist running shoes is like wearing gloves for your feet.

Why should I run barefoot?
Barefoot running has loads of benefits. It improves your foot and leg strength and running technique. It also minimizes future injuries. When you run barefoot, you feel exactly how hard your feet hit the ground. This will cause you to adjust your running so you land as softly as possible. Aside from all these health stuff, barefoot running is fun. Believe it or not, people who have never exercised before found themselves to be smiling while running barefoot.

Won’t my feet get dirty?
Of course your feet will get dirty. That’s why you shower after running. What you should be careful about are pieces of glass that might just be lying on the road – or worse, dog poo. Look down every now and then to make sure you don’t step on something you shouldn’t.

Okay fine, how do I start running barefoot?
Start slow. Your feet are used to running with support so it’s best to pace yourself. First try walking barefoot, then brisk walking or running very slowly. Once you’re used to that, get totally into it and try your normal running pace. Listen to your feet. If you think they can’t handle it anymore, rest.

Can I really run barefoot anywhere?
If you think about it, you can really run anywhere: at school, in work, along EDSA. You just have to be smart about it. The same goes for running barefoot. Don’t run in the middle of the day coz your feet will burn. Asphalt’s hot. Running barefoot on the treadmill? Try it and let me know.

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