Posts Tagged ‘running’

With the exception of the last couple of weeks I haven’t been to great at posting on Simplistic Thoughts. It’s partly because I have been busy with working on other blogs and partly because I have been busy doing various things here in Miyakojima (teaching English, learning Sanshin, studying Japanese, running a half-marathon, etc).

Well, I am going to try and change this and start posting a lot more often. Below are some of the topics that I will be posting about and some of the other ideas for the site.

Broader Topics

In the past, the main focus of this site has been self development, life hacks, and  a few adventures and tips on the side. Moving forward I plan to cover more day to day topics and adventures that I participate in. Since I currently live on a tropical island in Japan, that will range from snorkeling in the ocean, local festivals, spear fishing, and maybe even trips to the store when entertaining.

I will try to keep the posts helpful, and at least entertaining, but they will not be limited to any particular topic.

Getting Back in Shape..again

Last year I did a 30 day challenge using a popular abs program to get in shape. Without changing my diet, I actually got it pretty good shape within 30 days. Unfortunately, once the challenge was over, I cut back on my workout routine. In order to get back in shape, and stay there, I will doing more posting on exercising. I am also planning to make some videos of some of my favorite workouts.

More Videos

About a year ago I bought a new camera which among other things can go under water and also shoot hd video. I have been practicing with video editing software and will try and get more videos on the site. Everything from the places I go to various instructional videos.

More Cultural Topics

Having lived in Japan for a few years now I don’t tend to think about all the cool/weird stuff. When I think about it though, there are actually a lot of items, activities, and sometimes just weird happenings that would make good blog posts. Of course, I will also be posting tips on language learning.

More Adventures

Last year I did a lot of snorkeling, spear fishing, hiking, scuba diving, entering caves, and fishing. I also went to a lot of live performances (from hula to folk dancing to native Okinawan music). I plan to write more about these topics, and when possible, take videos and pictures.

Your Feedback

I would love to hear your thoughts on what you would like to read about more. If you really enjoy a certain topic let me know and I will try write more on it.

I look forward to sharing my adventures with you and thank you for reading.

A few days ago I received a comment about how I transitioned from running in running shoes (heel first) to running in generic Crocs (ball of the feet first). In this post I will do my best to explain that process.

I grew up with sneakers and running shoes, and with the exception of when I was very young, I was always wearing them. Wearing shoes made me run by first placing my heel on the ground, followed by the rest of my foot. But how would you run if you weren’t wearing shoes? After seeing some unique shoe designs, this was something I started to think about.

I grew up believing “the better the shoe, the better the runner”. Was it possible that the shoe wasn’t really that important? Had I been running wrong all this time? Were my shoes actually the problem rather than the solution? These were a couple of the questions that came to mind. I figured the best way to put them to the test would be to change my running style.

Step 1: Same Shoes, New Running Style

Modern running shoes provide a lot of support. Because of this there are a lot of muscles on your legs that aren’t developed very well. Before switching shoes, you will need to build up these muscles.

Using the same shoes you have been using. Start doing part of your running landing with the ball of your foot. Basically it should feel as if you are running on your toes. In the beginning you will probably need to take shorter strides. If possible, try to keep your heel from ever touching the ground. This will seem very awkward at first and you may get tired very quickly. If so, you can switch back and fort with your regular style of running.

*Be careful not to over do it. You don’t need to run several miles a day. For starters, maybe just a couple hundred yards. You will be using muscles you probably aren’t used to using.

Running several days a week, you should do this for at least a couple weeks. By the end you should be able to run a couple miles without your heels ever touching the ground. Your running should also start feeling more controlled and smooth.

Step 2: Short Distance, New Shoes

Now that your muscles are beginning to develop, it is time to stop using your running shoes. I chose to run in my generic Crocs because they are soft, easy to get, light, and it’s what I had. So far they have worked great for me, but look around and maybe you can find something even better.

The key point is that you need to start off with very short distances. Now that your feet are no longer supported you will be building new muscles. If you try to run too far you can strain your muscles and tendons. This is especially important for people with weak ankles. Take it slowly. As your muscles get stronger you will be able to run farther and farther.

Step 3: Further Strengthening the Muscles

To strengthen the muscles even more there are a few exercises your can do. The first is to run with your heels raised up even higher off the ground. Literally run on your tippy toes. You can do this for short distances during your run.

Another favorite of mine is jumping squats. These will of course strengthen your thighs, but also your calves and feet. Try to make the landing as soft as smooth as possible.

Step 4: Adapting

Your body will not be used to running on the balls of your feet. As you start making the change, listen to your body. Muscle soreness is okay, but you should avoid things that cause other kinds of pain. Try changing things like the angles of your feet, what part of your foot are you landing on, or where the majority of your weight is each time you step. Are you putting all the weight on the outside or inside with each step?

Running shoes allow us to form bad habits because they give support. Now that you have taken away that support, you have to rely on your muscles for stability. Listen to your body and make slight changes to your running style.

Your stories

I would love to hear from everyone who tries this. If you are having difficulty, let me know and I will try to help.