Hi

Nicola · Jun 23, 2015

So better introduce myself!

I'm Nicola and from the UK (down in Devon!) by day I work for a local McDonald's, although I am a qualified engineer by trade. By night a volunteer with the Air Cadets and hence do a lot of the fieldcraft thing (crawling around in the mud at night)

Just starting out in the barefoot running route after a few years away from running and many years of problems with shin splints, weak ankles and back problems. Still gently introducing myself and still at the stage of simply walking barefoot or in minimalist shoes as much as possible.

It is so far so good and I have had a few odd looks in the local shop being barefoot,nut what the heck! Even after a week I have noticed a difference in the strength in my ankles and I haven't had a problem with my shin splints so far!

DNEchris · Jun 23, 2015

Welcome Nicola.
Carry on taking it easy and you should be just fine.

Nicola · Jun 23, 2015

Thankfully I'm in no hurry, not planning to do anything silly like run a half marathon or anything (been there, done that hated every minute of it I'm afraid) just about getting fit, shifting some weight and doing it without spending too much money and allowing my feet to breath after 8 hours cooped up in safety shoes for work

Tedlet · Jun 23, 2015

Hi Nicola
Slowly but surely is generally a good motto to follow I think.

Stick without the shoes while you're getting used to it would be my own suggestion. The feedback you get from your feet is incredibly valuable (you'll probably find you're quite happy without them fairly quickly).

Enjoy!

Tedlet · Jun 23, 2015

...without shoes that is (not without your feet obviously!)..

Phil Hart · Jun 24, 2015

Welcome to the crew, Nicola - we're glad you've joined us. The patience you are showing is the better part of wisdom in this process. Slow and steady may not win the race, but it will keep you uninjured and on the road to healthy, enjoyable running. You're on the right track. Enjoy!