The Real Randy (The Natural Randy)

Well, after a month of researching why natural running & minimalist running is a better form of running i took it up. Started off slow, very slow just a couple miles barefoot every other day, and that was included on a regular run.  As of today June/2/2011 i will have my new vibram five fingers (so excited). It not only made my running better, physically, posture, pace, and mentally…. It improved me as a person.

Barefoot running is a part of my personality and it very much shows. I am a 24 year old father of 1 baby boy ‘Talon’, and a noc shift working CNA, running just put itself in my life and filled that little void of me needing to compete with myself, push myself, and have something else just for me to strive for. 

Since running i have quit smoking and drinking (cold turkey), and have not looked back on it. My life has had a major improvement, and its all thanks to the minimalist and natural barefoot running. Watching the movies, reading the books, hitting the road/trails, and everyday pushing myself to get closer to those amazing ultra runs. 

I am more ambitious (even though it was always there), my goals have improved, my all around personality is 2x’s as better. I don’t treat it just for running, i am one of those crazies who implement it in my everyday lifestyle on and off the road. As a father, a brother, a son and a friend, it tends to rub off. 

And my Favorite part of it all, i get to share my knowledge my adventures and stories with the world, those who want to know more, what it can do, how it can help, its knowledge that few seem to have unless they have made it a habit. Its healthy, its real and its ALL NATURAL.

Barefoot running in a sense really did save my life, and the community of natural/minimalist runners is amazing.

Send me your story of what barefoot running has done for you!

I like how newton put these 10 rules for running in their shoes on there site, the more knowledge the better to all whom choose the barefoot/minimalist lifestyle

01

GET A PROPER FIT. Standing with your heels pulled to the back of your Newtons, you should have a thumb’s width in front of your longest toe. The ball of your foot should line up over the middle of the red actuator lugs.

INSERT ORTHOTICS IF NEEDED. Newtons are not a substitute for custom orthotics. Remove the sockliner to accommodate your custom footbeds for the ultimate ride.

PRACTICE GOOD FORM. Relax, lean slightly forward and shorten your stride. Your foot will naturally land on your midfoot at a point under your hips. Keep a high cadence and your stride length short. (Do not run on your toes.)

LAND-LEVER-LIFT. Good running technique is as simple as Land-Lever-Lift: Land quietly in an athletic position with each footstrike under your hips; Lever off the front of the lugs; Lift your knee (do not push off or pull back with the toes) to begin a new stride.

ADAPT SLOWLY. To adapt to Newton’s Action/Reaction Technology™, start with short, slow runs (about a mile or so) a couple times a week for the first two weeks. Focus on good form and gradually increase your time and distance as your body feels ready. As with any sport, too much too fast can cause injury.

REDUCE FRICTION. Landing heavy, braking on your heels, bounding on your forefoot and pushing off too hard with the toes all create friction. Excessive pounding creates more shock to your muscles, tendons, and bones. Land lightly and run smoothly and efficiently.

LEARN FROM YOUR SHOES. Newtons wear like tires. The shoes act like a coach. By studying the friction wear patterns, you can learn how to adjust and improve your running form.

KEEP THEM CLEAN. Hand wash with mild soap and air dry. Do not place in direct sunlight.

STAY EDUCATED. Follow our website to keep updated on information, videos, tips and customer service. Share your stories and experiences on our blog.

HAVE FUN!