runawayforever wrote:
I don't think this is news to most experienced runners training to race.
Barefoot offers a way to improve foot and leg strength; helps you with your running form and proper foot landing; and feels great once you have the foot and leg strength.
But, it seems pointless to do it full-time if you are serious about setting race PBs, and it's not practical in some circumstances. A pair of light shoes with low or zero drop is your best bet.
I agree and I'm a barefoot runner. I probably could run a bit faster in shoes on pavement and a lot faster on some trail courses, but I'd still be a middle of the pack runner. Just being able to do it barefoot is so much more fun, and most people can't so why not? For the marathon I'm in low-3hr shape right now. I'll likely be able to run sub 3 this year or next. If I had a choice between 2:59 barefoot or 2:56 in shoes, I'd totally go for the barefoot 2:59, just because I'd be more stoked about it. If I thought I could run 2:40 in shoes maybe I'd do it, but there's no way shoes would make me that much faster.