When I first wanted to learn how to run years ago, I didn't know where to start. I just knew that I was told that I had to lean down (cut muscle weight) so that I could take pictures. Had no clue how to run and literally started from scratch. The most miles that I could get up to was 7 at a time before my hips started to hurt.
This was a huge problem. "Is there really a specific way how to run?" At the time it was definitely a chore. I had to find a way so that I could get this thing going and not worry about having sore hips. "There is so much that goes into this. What am I missing?" So I reached out to a good friend that had been running for years and she obliged to refer me to a book entitled Born to Run by Chris McDougal. I didn't end up finishing the book, but I had gathered just enough info that I believed that I needed to properly get started. Ordered the Vibram Five Fingers and went to work. Prior to ordering the shoes (everyone called them toe shoes) I heard numerous stories about people getting injured. "Why so many injuries? Well let's put this thing to the test."
Being that I already had strength training experience, I started out with that. I proceeded with calf raises and squats while wearing the shoes every other day. In the days between, I would get on the treadmill and lightly jog just to get the feeling of it. I could feel my gait and posture change more each day that I wore the shoes. In a matter of 3 months, I believed that my feet were strong enough to give it a shot. The first run outside with the famous minimalist shoes. Forsyth Park sure is wonderful. I had never struck the ground like that with my forefeet before. It felt so light; so effortless. I can recall during that moment that I was actually smiling while running. I came to realize that I'd built the strength in my feet and legs. I had successfully taught myself how to properly run minimalist. I strongly believe that if it weren't for this type of curiosity and taking the time to teach myself, I wouldn't be the runner that I am today. Could minimalist running work for you? With a little time and working your way through consistent strength progressions of the feet and legs, I highly believe so! Remember that patience is everything when we are changing ourselves in any way, shape, or form. Make it happen!