I was very enthusiastic about barefoot and VFF running in the late spring and early summer. So enthusiastic that I started doing a bit too much too soon ("TMTS" on the barefoot running forums). I was also trying to get my mileage up a bit as a new runner so I could do some 5K runs in some sprint tri's over the summer. The result was some new foot pain that I had not experienced as a shod runner. I had to cut way back on my running in general and took a complete break from it for about 4 weeks after my last tri in September.

I waited until the tendinitis in my foot (PTT) was barely noticeable before starting out in the VFFs again. This time I have taken it very slowly. Started with no more than 1/4 mile at a time, and have gradually gotten backup to being able to do 3+ miles. I did a 5K on Thanksgiving in the VFFs and felt great! Got a few curious comments and questions from other runners, and piqued the interest of at least a couple of them.

The PTT is not 100% healed, and I can feel some discomfort after running. I have been taping it to give some support when I am on my feet all day, but it doesn't seem to be giving me too much grief so far. I know it is important to really let it heal, or it can become a chronic problem.

The hip pain that I was experiencing when running in my"supportive shoes" has not been a problem at all. I think that by artificially supporting the foot, you just transfer the strain farther up.

It is starting to get cold here, and my VFFs are not giving me quite enough warmth, even with some toe socks. I have just ordered a pair of Feelmax Niese from Barefoot Ted. They are some minimalist shoes from Finland that should provide a little more warmth, especially with regular Smartwool socks. I tried using some old water shoes, but they soles were not flexible enough and I felt like a jogging duck! I hope I can continue to run with the FeelMax shoes through the winter. I haven't done any treadmill running...don't really want to

I am committed to staying with the barefoot/minimalist running. I find it gives me much more joy. I just need to be mindful and listen to my body so I don't keep injuring myself.