How to learn barefoot running

XeroShoes.com -- Want to learn barefoot running? Learning how to run without shoes is a process, one that includes your body and your brain.
When you misunderstand the way your brain actually learns a new physical activity, like running bare footed, it can make the process seem more difficult than it is.
In fact, what most people think of as problems, or challenges, are actually the normal process of learning.
In this video Steven Sashen answers an email about what it takes to learn to run barefoot or in minimalist shoes like Xero Shoes.
It can be fun and easy with these tips.

[@ammovette]

Started running barefoot/minimalist in 2009, it took me a year to get used to running barefoot or in minimalist shoes. since then I've run 15 milers many times. Now, much older, I don't run as far or as fast, but I still enjoy running this way.

[@alancraig3756]

My first barefoot / Xero running attempts weren’t so great. Each time, something was off with my form and it was hurting my feet. It was frustrating and I ended up bailing. What finally helped was spending a few minutes each day working on my running form, completely barefooted. Once I figured out the form that worked with my completely bare feet, running in my Xeros was a breeze. I’m running around 30-35 miles per week (and increasing) in my Xeros and everything feels great.

[@xeroshoes]

That's awesome!

[@joeallen2354]

I like this guy.

[@clray123]

The learning during rest observation is very true, it's uncanny as far as motor skills are concerned. I've experienced this when learning arm waves (dance move) and learning to move my toes separately. There is very little noticeable progress during an initial session (and frustration for that reason), but the next day, after sleep, the exercises "magically" become easier to perform.
The difference to learning barefoot running is that if your calves or feet are knocked out for the next few days as a side effect of a [bad] session, the automatic learning progress won't be as easy to notice.

[@shawnchin5147]

hahahahahahaha funny how u turned and there's no 'xero shoes' on your shirt

[@fruitarian]

Was anyone else expecting him to show us the gravel buckets? What supplies to ask for at the hardware store? Should we get sand? Should it be wet or dry? I saw him make a funny wave motion with his hand, as if to indicate that we will have good and bad moods as we train our feet. He's quite the intellectual.

[@theSEGAtwistisover9k]

I'm too impatient for all this learning business

[@frannieOh]

Have you seen the UNH research project on BFR by Neil Baroody?
Very interesting. The most important part for this aspiring BF runner though was the chart of the 10 week program to train into BF running.
Here's the link www.unh.edu/inquiryjournal/spring-2013/effect-barefoot-training-program-running-economy-and-performance

[@alfromtx245]

I'm up to 2 barefoot / Xero runs per week. Around 3 1/2 miles each, and adding a little with each successful week. I've heard that it's better to do your barefoot running on hard surfaces, because softer surfaces (i.e. grass) can still allow you to maintain improper form. What about the track or dirt trails? These are obviously softer than concrete or asphalt, but they're harder than grass. Even the dirt trails are compacted from all the foot traffic.
I'm just wondering because I've been cycling my barefoot / Xero runs between the street, track, and dirt trails. If I'm not really helping myself by doing these on the track / trails, I can make some adjustments. Just checking.

[@xeroshoes]

Basically, any smoother hard surface is best for learning. The track is good, but can be abrasive. Dirt trails are super fun.

[@Azdrann]

Does Xero Shoes shipping to Brazil? Cause I've been facing some problems on the checkout information.

[@xeroshoes]

We are currently not shipping to Brazil from our main site, however we also sell through Amazon, REI, and Zappos, so those might be good places to check as well.

[@Azdrann]

@@xeroshoes thanks a lot. I'm going to check those. ^^

[@trainwellracewell]

Would the goal of barefoot or minimal shoe running be to gradually transition completely out of more cushioned, higher stack shoes or simply developing more overall foot strength? I run quite a few trail & road races but am trying to imagine running those races in Xero Shoes. Thanks

[@xeroshoes]

You could go barefoot or use minimalist shoes as a way to strengthen your feet in training, but we also prefer going barefoot or minimal to allow for natural movement and toe flexibility at all times.

[@trainwellracewell]

⁠Great, thanks! Enjoying my Xero Shoes so far

[@gypsierose3611]

I just bought your shoes and I have always run barefoot ever since I was a child. I can't even walk in them let alone run. Very disappointed

[@xeroshoes]

That's surprising to hear. Can you reach out to our Customer Happiness Team so we can help? [e-mail]

[@gypsierose3611]

I haven't yet

[@xeroshoes]

When you can, please do so that we can help you.