The NYC Marathon is around the corner, and with it, plenty of running aches and pains. Here at Sage, many of our staff are runners so we really understand the highs and the lows associated with that physical sport. One of the biggest complaints reported by runners involves stress to the knee, and tendonitis.
Here's the big question: So, with the advent of high tech running shoes, why are knee injuries on the increase? You would think that great running shoes would help runners prevent knee problems.
NY Times columnist, Tara Parker-Pope wondered the same thing, and set out to find an answer. She writes about the studies done on barefoot runners, and the advantages of running barefoot.
Have You Run Barefoot?- Tara Parker-Pope, NY Times
"Barefoot runners appear to naturally compensate for the lack of cushioning and land more softly than runners in shoes. Running barefoot may improve running form and reduce injury risk because runners without shoes tend to land in the middle of the foot."
Is Barefoot Better? - Tara Parker-Pope, NY Times
"Some experts now believe that most athletic shoes, with their inflexible soles, structured sides and super-cushioned inserts keep feet so restricted that they may actually be making your feet lazy, weak and more prone to injury. As a result, barefoot training is gaining more attention among coaches, personal trainers and runners."
