The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Barefoot Running
The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Barefoot Running
by Dr. Craig Richards and Thomas Hollowell
ISBN-13: 978-1615640621
I don’t fancy myself a complete idiot, or even a partial one at that. But I gotta give props to this line of books for finding ways to write about such a broad range of subjects* in clear and concise ways. I did see someone joke online about needing a “Complete Idiot’s” book on this subject, but it’s not that crazy once you delve into it.
This book is a pretty thorough book on general aspects of running, but it’s geared toward those looking to break into barefoot running. There are drills and strengthening exercises that would be beneficial to just about any runner, but are specifically for helping to strengthen neglected muscles needed to run unshod.
The nutrition section had mention of chia seeds, the first time I’ve seen that in a running book, but not surprising given the chia seed/barefoot running that seem to be the big things people take from Born to Run.
I liked this book. I learned several things I didn’t know, and I’ve been quite the student of barefoot running. (That is studying it and learning about it, I haven’t dived into the practice for reasons that probably warrant a separate post all on their own!)
The chapter on injuries made me a little sad where it talked about stress fractures. It said that bone scans are usually need to fully diagnose the fracture (Which my doctor tried to get me in for, but the only place that would take my insurance couldn’t do the scan until the end of July. Lame!) and it said that the treatment is rest for 6 to 10 weeks. Yuck… I’m only about 2.5 weeks into my “rest” period.
Some interesting tidbits from the book I thought I would share:
- Running shoes typically feature a built-up backend in the range of 8 to 12 mm. By way of comparison, women’s shoes are not considered high heels until they are at least 8.5 cm off the ground. I feel better running in shoes with a lower heel-to-toe drop, but that difference doesn’t make the raised heel seem quite as evil as some of the forums I’ve read.
- Transitioning to barefoot running takes time and can be hard for people who are already used to running a lot. The book went so far as to say: If you don’t have the confidence or discipline to slow down for 3, 6 or 12 months, then you are unlikely to make the full transition to barefoot running.
- The chapter about minimal shoes had this to say about using them: The best time to use barefoot shoes is when you are already running without shoes a significant amount of time over various terrain. Only when the foot, ankle and leg are strong; your foot padding toughened or thickened; and your form perfected, should you bring minimal shoes into the picture.
*I even saw on Amazon that they had an idiot’s guide to the Bible!
This book was sent to me for free for review purposes. All opinions are my own.