Part of our love of running comes from the no nonsense simplicity and convenience of the sport, no complicated or expensive equipment and it takes place, right out our front door. At times I feel I am a prisoner to a life that demands me to constantly learn new technologies to keep pace with the competition. The run allows us me to unplug, reboot and shut down all the life sucking applications running in the background. 

As the minimalist footwear craze started it seemed only natural for us runner types to be attracted to the idea, to take our sport to the next level of simplicity. The manufacturers jumped out in full force trying to capitalize on the new segment, creating hype and cashing in. Many of us found we could get away with a lot less on our feet than we were wearing but many of us suffered time away from the run from injury due to the need for the supportive footwear that worked for us or from not taking the time to let the body adapt to the change.

I'd say overall, the minimalist movement has been good for our sport, as we are coming out the backside of the craze with a focus on our running form, allowing for healthy changes in footwear to lighter, less controlling and more flexible models to ease into. Cool stuff!

Run efficiently,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner that is digging the new lighter faster shoes ... that still offer support.

PS: Shoes like the Saucony Kinvara 4 and the Saucony Ride 6 are proof that some great changes have taken place in footwear, beautiful, lightweight, responsive, shoes with amazing transition and ride not found in the pre minimalist world, making all old shoes ... old shoes! Got to have em!

PS: Yoga for runners takes place 10:30 - 11:30 AM Tuesdays at Running Fit Northville. Come join us, your core will thank you!  No experience necessary, no matter what your level of yoga experience you will benefit from Yogi Leslie's knowledge. Class fee $12. Register Here .  Namaste'