Everybody’s an expert. Just visit one of the thousand different blogs on running barefoot or in minimalist shoes and poke around. They’ll tell you how to run, statistics on how terrible running shoes are for you, how to eat… It just keeps going. Not that I disagree, mind you, it’s just… Information overload, I guess.
Look around. Twitter, Facebook, blog posts all talking about how many miles they’ve run. It can be disheartening if you’re just starting out or out of shape. Here’s an idea. Stop paying attention to them (except us, of course). You’ll burn yourself out. Mentally and physically. Born to Run is not scripture. Yes, it’s a damn good book, and I’d recommend it to anyone, but it’s not the “Be all, end all.” Neither is Barefoot Ted. He’s not the second coming (don’t get me wrong, I like Barefoot Ted).
Better yet, stop running. Yeah, I said it. Don’t run. Go try something else. Try a circuit course, a martial arts class, maybe go for a hike. Hell, strap on the VFF’s and take an aerobics course if that’s what you’re into. Mix it up. Have some fun with it. You’re a barefooter, remember? You supposed to be free and easy, right?
You’re not being chased. Stop trying to catch up. You’re not running for your life.
Yeah yeah, blah blah. Exercise good for you, make you better, faster, stronger. I know. I got it. I’m also not against competition or pushing yourself. Lighten up. You know why 70-80%* of able-bodied folk don’t exercise? Because they think it sucks. You can add me to that group. I admit it. Find a friend, find your niche, whatever it takes to make it not suck. You’ll thank yourself later.
Think I’m completely full of shit? Let me know.
*I pulled this figure straight out of my ass.
No related posts.
