Quote Originally Posted by GLC1968 View Post
This. I have found that running smartly (is that a word??) has actually helped with a lot of my own limitations that cycling did not help. I've built up foot strength, ankle strength, hip strength and core strength that I didn't necessarily get when cycling. It really varies by practitioner though, and of course, by individual as well. I would do a good amount of research ahead of time (including Chi Running) and then listen very carefully to your body if you decide to give it a try.
+1
I am doing the C25K program in my Vibrams using Chi running techniques. I have bad lower back issues and a pounding heel strike in regular shoes makes my leg go numb & my back go into spasms. In my Vibrams, I cannot do a heel strike so I MUST run more smartly (yeah, it's a word - we've used it twice so that nails it!).

I admit, when I first looked at C25K I thought it was numbingly simple but I know the importance of building a good base, so I figured I'd haul the dog along with me & he can do the program too. So far, we're at week three, no back issues, no knee problems & I'm really liking it. I thought I'd be bored stiff.

I imagine that any minimalist shoe would be OK instead of Vibrams. Some people don't like things between their toes.