Do elite train in flats?

Just a tip on slipping while running in the H streets. I have found that though diffult on up and downhills if you learn to lift from your hamstring only you will experience minimal slipping. If want an example of what I am talking about go to www.posetech.com and checkout the video section, and watch the guy running on an ice rink. Let me know what you think.

I don't know what BR was wearing back in 1975 when he was running as much as 200 MPW (which he only did on occasion but did average 120 to 130 much of the time), but I do know that he would avoid hard surfaces such as concrete as much as possible- he did run on trails and the like where he could. Also, he did a lot of track work, so I am sure he wore flats some of the time.

It would be nice if he would post here and clarify the question. He did post here a couple of weeks back.

I'd be curious what he wore and how fast he went through a pair.

Interesting clip. I'm not sure I entirely understand what's going on in that clip though.

I think that this is the same reason why I've never been a very good mud runner. I think because I get a lot of my running propulsion from my calves at toe off there's a lot of power in a short time with a small area in contact with the ground. Therefore, I get a lot of slipping if I don't have good friction (dry surface, spikes, etc).

Decent shoe reviews on that site too.

I share the same problem as you then as I have always stunk in the mud or any slippery surface (snow, etc.).

Had some myself wrote:

Jaguar1, were you wearing the pinkish red H-Streets on Sunday? I think we saw you out there. Congratulations on the new PR....

So, does anyone have any suggestions for something that is similar to the H-Street in terms of flat/low to ground, supple upper, etc. My achilles tendon really appreciates the lack of a stiff heel counter too.

Yep, that's right.:) My pink Puma's.... it was funny how during the race, a lot of spectators (and runners in the race!) were commenting on my pink shoes.:p

Yeah, definitely the hardest part when I started wearing the Puma's was the fact my feet were slapping the ground and slipping on the wet concrete. Now, my biomechanics are much more efficient and my footstrike is lighter, so I get 600-700 (vs. 250 with that first pair). Better control, not 'pounding' the concrete. I don't believe the changes have been a conscious effort, but moreso natural adjustments to feel most comfortable with less on my feet. As far as the slickness, I find them to be difficult at first, but once you wear them down a bit they're fine. Muddy, wet trails can be a bit difficult at times (I've though about getting some cross country flats). Hmmm, yeah, so maybe look into some cross country flats? I don't know how they'd feel on the concrete though.

Rodgers did a lot of his training around Jamaica Pond in his early years. All asphalt.

Are you the Jeremy Huffman who ran for Arkansas?

I've neber even been to Arkansas.

Yes, I am the Jeremy Huffman that ran for Arkansas.

In reference to the original question, elites don't need to train in flats nearly as much as more ordinary runners need to train in flats. Generally speaking, elites have extremely good mechanics, otherwise they wouldn't be able to run so fast. Middle of the packers aren't as talented and their form is not as good. They need the sensory feedback permitted when wearing thin soled shoes much more than an elite runner. Because of their superior biomechanics, elites can wear thickly padded, sensory numbing shoes and still run with good form. Simply stated, less talented runners can't get away with such luxury and should wear thin soled shoes so they're constantly reminded of the need for proper running form.

No, elites don't generally run in flats. You probably aren't as blessed. Elites can get away with it, you probably can't. You need to wear minimalist footwear.

... and I generally define middle of the back as slower than 15:00, 31:00, 2:30. For the ladies, 16:00, 33:00, 2:40. Don't argue the times, they merely indicate you're not in contention to place in a sporting level race. For the record, I'm a middle of the packer.

That video link does not work.

Which video link are you refering to?

The one's at the Post site.

sorry, that should be POSE site

Not exactly sure why you can't access them. It is possible that your computer does not have the video software. Otherwise you may just try again later.

you have a lot high standards for the women. I would say the equivlents of 15,31,and 2:30 would be more like 17:00,35:00, and 2:50

What kinda of shoe should I use to transition to the H-streets? I adapted to running 100% in magic racers, with some barefoot this summer, and now in Streak Vapor 4 (however they took me out for a bit, 2 weeks and counting, but not much longer) b/c I wore them too often too soon due to their lower heel. My other pair is a 1976 styled waffle trainer, but what is a good transition shoe to the h-streets? An xc flat...the xc streak? keep with the streak vapor?

keep in mind, its just not about heel heights, its about flexibility as well. the magics have the trustic system which make them very stiff and not near minimal at all. a better bet may be to go to the ds-racers. they are a little heavier but more flexible. from there, you can go to a xc flat, then to the h-streets.