Christopher McDougall, the author of the national bestseller, Born To Run has a courageous idea when it comes to running shoes and runners who wear them.
Throw your running shoes in the trash!
Christopher McDougall claims that the entire multi-billion dollar (running shoe) industry "is based on a campaign not of facts, but of fear. Fear that if you don’t buy a $175 sneaker and replace it in three months, you’ll ruin your knees." He claims that humans have evolved in a manner that makes running barefoot better for your muscles and joints and that the technology introduced via the running shoe is actually bad for you and promotes injuries.
Here's a snippet:
Nike, naturally has a different perspective!
Well, clearly this is a tough debate. I haven't read McDougall's book yet but he seems to present a valid argument. But for now, just between us....... I'm keeping my running shoes!
They are super comfortable!
Just Do It!
(Note: no fees were received by me from Nike for making this post - But, I'm receptive to the idea)
5 comments:
Receptive to the idea of a handout eh?! Naughty- but gave me an early morning giggle:))
It's not a new idea though - remember Zola Budd? I think there's a lot of sense in what he says but I'm not totally convinced injuries may be the result of trainers - the correct trainers are certainly beneficial. Young Jacob has orthotics in his to correct his flat feet which even at 9/10 were causing him knee problems and no doubt would have led to serious problems when he was older - now he doesn't get any knee pain! Well apart from yesterday when he tripped over at school and was wheeled to the infirmary... Yes - it was one of those days:))
Love those blue trainers! Can trainers be sexy? Okay, they're sexy:))
I heard about this guy at a wine tasting a few months ago. Heard the book was an interesting read at any rate. Might have merit -the smaller stabilizing muscles in my surgically-enhanced right ankle always get stronger when I hike a lot in my Keen (receptivity all over the place!) sandals. Picking the right surface to run on helps, too, I think. Was he really running on pavement in sandals?? I'd need my Mizunos on that hard a surface!
Jane,
Yes I do remember Zola Budd... good point. Sorry to hear about the trip to the nurses' office. I hope he was pampered a bit. :)
Sexy trainers? Hmnnnnn!
Footsteps, of all people I thought you might have heard of this guy. (Figuring you run in those circles - literally) Never guessed it would have come up at a wine-tasting. :) Anyway, I try to avoid the hard surfaces whenever possible... the pounding! I can't imagine doing it in sandals or barefoot. Got to hear more about the ankle surgery.
Indeed, it was great and courageous idea. I always loved my nike running shoes and smartwool socks that provide the utmost comfort and support for runners.
Post a Comment