Martin Rooney on the Importance of Barefoot Training.

Sometimes this blog will be original content, and other times I will point you in the direction of someone else's post that I found interesting or informative. The following is Martin Rooney writing about a topic near and dear to my heart: Barefoot Training.

Martin Rooney is an internationally recognized athletic performance specialist, author and physical therapist. He has a very well-rounded approach to training and his views on training and the human body often make a whole lotta sense. His book Training For Warriors: The Ultimate Mixed Martial Arts Workout is on my wish/shopping list.


The Importance of Barefoot Training, By Martin Rooney

Enjoy.

GB

What I've been up to.

It's been a couple of lunar cycles since I last posted and that's just no good. There is no excuse for it I know, but shifting my focus to finding consistent hardworking clients while writing an album with my band, The Hint, has taken its toll on my extra-curricular biz.

In my world of health and fitness I have been stretching regularly with a focus on mobility (props to www.mobilitywod.blogspot.com) and strength. My strength program is Jim Wendlers 5/3/1, and although I am only in week 2, I am very optimistic to meet my goals with the program.

Hope everyone out there is busy living and loving life while accomplishing their goals. Looking forward to posting again soon!

GB

Product Review: Vibram FiveFingers KSO

Ello Ello!

It has been waaaaaay too long since you've heard from me about fitness, sustainable lifestyles, diet, and exercise equipment.

Today I am going to talk about a piece of gear, bought last year, that I have used almost daily ever since. I'm referring to Vibram FiveFingers! They can be found here at http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/. At the time I was enjoying the wonderful results of my conversion to a 'Primal' lifestyle and if Mark Sisson told me to chop my toes off to live a happier, healthier life, then I probably would have. When he posted http://www.marksdailyapple.com/vibram-fivefingers/ it was the tipping point and I went out to my local Hudson Trail Outfitters in search of a pair to try on myself. They had a pair of KSO's with my name on it as soon as I walked in. The following is what Vibram has to say about their shoes followed by my thoughts as well.


Vibram FiveFingers KSO
$85

They say

"In just over a year, the KSO has become our most popular model for men. Featuring a thin, abrasion-resistant stretch nylon and breathable mesh upper that wraps your entire forefoot to "Keep Stuff Out." A single hook-and-loop closure helps secure the fit. A non-marking 3.5mm Vibram TC1 performance rubber sole is razor-siped for a sure grip, and a 2mm EVA insole enhances plating protection and comfort.


KSO IS BEST FOR: Running, Light Trekking, Climbing/Bouldering, Fitness, After Sport, Water Sports, Yoga/Pilates & Travel"

I say

These shoes are awesome! Probably the best fitness, nay, life purchase made in 2009. I lift in them, I hike in them, I lounge in them, and I sprint on grass in them. I am not much of a runner, distance or otherwise, so pavement running is still a bit rough on my flat feet. However, the kettlebell, barbell and body weight exercises that I do feel very grounded and solid in my FiveFingers and I have a hard time wearing anything else when I workout.

Depending on your personality you may or may not enjoy the extra attention you get from wearing these in public. I am not one to be bothered by what other people think and most times find myself engaged in some really great conversations with complete strangers about my 'gorilla feet'. This eventually leads to a nice talk about training and a healthy lifestyle in general. However be warned, if you aren't ready to explain why you don't like cushy cross trainers with 1" heels, then public outings might not be your thing.

I do find that I have to put them through a weekly washing to avoid long term funkiness, otherwise they are a must have. I would recommend these to anyone looking to strengthen their feet, ankles, lower legs, and most importantly their lives. I will definitely be purchasing another pair in the near future. I have my eye on the KSO Trek's.

Please share if you have any experience with FiveFingers or other 'alternative' footwear.

GB