Barefoot Running?

My grand ideas about running over the holiday came to a screeching halt when I discovered snow-packed roads and remembered the effects of the over mile-high altitude in Evergreen. However, I was able to enjoy my few days off with my family, had a wonderful Christmas and am definitely ready to kick it into high gear.

Before I left for Colorado, I went to an orthopedic doctor to have my knee checked out before I really got into my training program. I was diagnosed with "runner's knee", obviously a very common running injury. I now have a nifty brace to wear that is supposed to help keep my knee cap in place as I run, and I begin physical therapy tonight to strengthen my legs. Not that I needed another thing to do during the week, but if it helps my running, then that is all that matters.

My doctor was really great, and a runner as well. We started talking about Christopher McDougall's new book, Born to Run. I picked it up on my way to the airport on Wednesday, and couldn't put it down for the entire 4 hour flight. As a previously injured runner, the author changes his training style to emulate the Tarahumara Indians. I am currently at a part in the book where McDougall explains the benefits of running barefoot, or almost barefoot with Vibram Five Fingers shoes. Very interesting concept, as running barefoot is supposed to help lessen the chance of injury due to running, and many ultra marathoners and athletes subscribe to this type of training. While my doctor thought there were some high points to running barefoot, she still recommended that I keep running with my Saucony shoes.  I wonder if there will be anyone running Boston in Five Fingers?