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Supplied by the Vibram Biomechanics Advisory Board
FIVEFINGERS AND BAREFOOT RUNNING
VIBRAM FIVEFINGERS DO NOT HAVE A CUSHIONED HEEL PAD. WHAT WILL THAT MEAN TO MY BIOMECHANICS?
In your typical running shoe the heel is higher than the forefoot. In FiveFingers both the heel and forefoot lie on the same plane, so there is no cushioned heel. If you are a traditional heavy heel-strike runner or walker, you might have a biomechanical change to make, but this change is likely a good one. Humans are not meant to heel strike heavily, particularly when running. Try running without shoes on; you will see what we mean. Running barefoot with a strong heel strike will send you to the sofa while your bone contusion or fracture heals. One of the goals of Vibram FiveFingers footwear is to encourage mid-foot striking, meaning your heel and forefoot contact almost simultaneously to share weight load. This style of running and walking is safer, results in much fewer injuries, and is biomechanically more sound from an energy and force distribution standpoint. Basically, it is a smarter way to ambulate.
CAN I STILL RUN IN MY REGULAR RUNNING SHOES AND USE MY VIBRAM FIVEFINGERS FOR TRAINING?
Absolutely. Training in FiveFingers will enhance your proprioception and help you run better, especially if you utilize the technique adaptations you learned while using FiveFingers.
HOW LONG TILL I SEE RESULTS IN MY TRAINING?
A change in your running style will occur almost immediately, with lasting adaptations within a few weeks. Remember, you are learning a new tool. As your skill improves, you become more adept at using it.
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