I recently took my first barefoot hike with a group in Mass. I had a great time and had the opportunity to meet some very seasoned barefoot hikers and runners - some doing this for 20 years! I learned, despite what I thought, barefoot hiking/walking/running is more than just baring your feet. For some it’s a cure to their muscular problems, an unconventional lifestyle, a statement, a meditation, and even a high.
I took my first barefoot run yesterday and learned the proper techniques to running barefoot (we need to retrain ourselves to how we originally walked without shoes). I felt tension in muscles I think I’ve never used before. I was more upright, not bouncing up and down, staying springy in the knees and landing forefront first. I had a great teacher. I only went a short distance but I can’t wait to try it again. It’s so much fun!
If you are in the Boston area and want to check out some groups, you should head over to the Eastern MA Barefoot Hikers Group: http://bit.ly/KHKazV
