Think that running sans shoes is just for kids and Kenyans?  Think again. A growing number of North Americans are discovering the benefits of barefoot running. The website Running Barefoot contains a number of testimonials from people who claim that running without shoes has improved their racing times, cured their running injuries, and otherwise enhanced their lives in general.

According to the good folks at Running Barefoot, shoes are the source of most running injuries.  Forcing the feet into these artificial creations prevents otherwise natural foot movements.  The result of restricting these movements can include such ailments such as blisters, Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis. 

Further, the Running Barefoot authors suggest that the entire running shoe industry is really just a self perpetuating marketing scam.  Shoes aren’t even necessary for cushioning, they claim.  If a barefoot runner is pounding too hard, he or she will alter his or her stride naturally to prevent excess shock.

While I haven’t bought into the whole running shoe conspiracy idea, I’ve experimented a bit with barefoot running over the past two years, at least in the spring and summer months.  I’ve found that doing easy 100m strides and running a few hills sans shoes has strengthening my formerly weak ankles, improved flexibility in my feet and calves, and helped to control the chronic Achilles Tendonitis that has plagued me for many years.

A well maintained football field or soccer pitch, either natural grass or artificial turf, makes an excellent surface for running without shoes.  Also, grass hills can also prove to be a good venue for shoeless running.

If you plan to try out barefoot running, I suggest that you do it soon.  Even the die-hards at Running Barefoot would have to cover their tootsies during the winter in many areas of North America..  I doubt the benefits of running with frostbitten toes outweigh the otherwise considerable costs.