Was so happy to get back to the track today. The tendonitis - if that's what it was - behind my right knee finally seems to be gone. For a few weeks it would come and go for three or four days at a time, and it was definitely aggravated by all of the snow shoveling we've had to do. (Already we've broken the total snowfall record for Philadelphia this year, and are expecting another 6-12 inches tonight.)
Yesterday I picked up a pair of Vibram Five Fingers and some toed socks, and was eager to try them out. I've been following the barefoot running movement, and these zero-support, separated-toe shoes seem like a sane compromise. (In the last few years, more people have begun to subscribe to the theory that cushioned running shoes facilitate a style of running that causes injury in the long term for many runners. Barefoot or minimally shod running is theorized to help you to run in a way that is easier on the body.)
The run was interesting. I did not feel that it changed my form very much - I've been consciously trying to keep a mid-foot strike since reading Chi Running. It was surprisingly comfortable. Everyone advises to start slow and short. I was planning three miles, but ended up running five, getting faster throughout the run. I didn't bother with the Forerunner, since I didn't want to push the speed (and the battery was dead after my month-long layoff.)
By the last mile, I could feel some wear on the balls of my feet, which is probably good - means I am not heel-striking. Now, eight hours later, I can feel some fatigue in my lower legs, but no worrying pain. With the snow coming tonight it might be several days before I can run again. I think I will stick with the Five Fingers for a while and see if it helps to avoid some leg pain.
