Ron Olsthoorn Considers the Science Supporting Barefoot Running
Online, September 17, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Compared to other athletes, avid runners rely on few pieces of sports equipment; however, quality running shoes have remained a staple among them. Although running shoes have transformed over the years, the relatively recent introduction of "glove shoes" has led many runners to try the art of "barefoot running." According to a recent Huffington Post article, scientists have assessed the motion associated with running barefoot to determine whether or not the activity prevents more injuries than traditional running. Ron Olsthoorn, an experienced marathon runner, responds with interest and skepticism of the trend.
According to the article, there are two forms of running; traditional running, common among typical American runners who wear shoes, involves a heel-strike, while barefoot running incorporates a forefoot strike using the balls of the feet. Having witnessed barefoot patterns among native runners in Kenya, scientists have found that "[Forefront strikes] allows for a slow lowering of the body through eccentric (lengthening muscle contraction) activity of the calf muscles. In contrast, habitual shoe runners strike the ground with the heel, and then use the foot as a rocker for the body to fall forward." According to the article, the dynamics of the forefront strike provide evidence that barefoot running could lead to a lower risk of knee injury.
Although Ron Olsthoorn is fascinated by the results of such studies, he states, "Running barefoot appears to be less stressful on the leg and ankle joints, however, converting to this type of running when you have been used to running in a cushioned shoe, will take a great deal of time to allow the new muscles and ligaments to adjust." Considering that barefoot running requires a heavier impact on the calves, many who are new to the sport may not have bodies that are built for the activity. The increase on demand in this region of the leg could lead to calf-muscle fatigue, making it more difficult for runners to transition into the barefoot method.
According to the article, the scientific community has yet to collect enough data to verify the benefits of one method over another. Whether or not an individual decides to pursue barefoot running, the article notes that all runners must approach it with a slow transition-a transition that Ron Olsthoorn is not sure the American running community will embrace. He concludes, "A lot of runners would not be willing to sacrifice the time it takes in order to adapt to the new running style. For me, I like the cushioning and support of a top quality shoe. Call me old-fashioned."
ABOUT:
Ron Olsthoorn is an investment and insurance professional who offers learned expertise gained from the noted Certified Financial Planning Course (CFP). In addition to providing top-notch financial planning services, he is an active runner who has made a solid hobby out of marathon running. As a seasoned runner who has completed several half marathons and marathons, including the noteworthy Boston Marathon, Ron Olsthoorn encourages all athletes to take the proper precautions when preparing for a high-intensity event.