R.A.C.E – Reaction Agility Competition Endurance/

FAQ’s about Vibram FiveFinger Shoes

I finally joined the “webbed-feet” club! 

Are Vibram’s only for runners?

-No.  Vibram’s are for any type of person who lives an active lifestyle.  They can be used for runners, lifters, crossfitters, the water sport athlete or just for anyone who wants a pair of funny-lookin shoes to wear around.

They are designed to help correct imbalances in people that have been created because they walk/run too much on their heals.  This can be a cause of wearing shoes with too much support/cushion, flat feet, habitual heal striking, etc.  The Vibram’s force a person to run more on the ball/toe of their feet which can have an end result of less injury, back, hip, and joint pain and help improve your balance, agility and proprioception.

How long will it take to adjust to Five Fingers?

-It depends on the person.  If you are someone who trains or walks barefoot or if you use shoes that have minimal support then it should take less time to adapt.  If this does not apply to you then it may take a lot longer for your feet, joints, ligaments and muscles to adjust.

Am I going to experience pain with FiveFingers?

-It is not uncommon for people to have discomfort when they first switch over.  You may experience some muscle soreness in your feet, shins and calves.  It is OK to have minor discomfort, this means that you are most likely using muscles you wouldn’t normally use training in other shoes.  Although, if pain persists discontinue use.

If I am new to working out all together should I purchase FiveFingers?

-Yes.  If you do not normally train then your muscles are not adapted to anything.  At this point, you will correct any imbalances before they start.  You will experience soreness no matter what shoe you wear so you might as well start with something that will benefit you long term!  I suggest having more than one pair of shoes because you should switch back and forth for at least the first month to adjust your lower body to all different kinds of shoes.  My best advice is to start SLOW.  Too many people jump the gun on working out and are looking for a “quick fix” and they end up getting burnt out or getting hurt.  No matter what shoe you end up with, start SLOW.

What is the easiest way to transition without experiencing too much discomfort if any?

-I recommend only using them for part of your workout/run.  If you are used to working out 4x/wk then only use them 2 of those days and possibly cut your workout in half or switch your shoes halfway through.  Everyone’s experience is going to be different but whatever you do, DO NOT start off to strong.  Pick your light workout days to begin.

For some 4-6 weeks is sufficient with consistent and proper training to fully adjust to your new “feet-gloves”.  The key is taking progressive steps.  If you are someone who wears super comfy, cushioned shoes including higher end stability or motion-control shoes like Asics Evolution or Kayano, Brooks Beast, Addiction or Adrenaline, Saucony MC Stabil or Omni, Nike Stasis, or New Balance 1122s—it would be wise to drop down into a less rigid shoe before increasing your time in FiveFingers. Of course, you can always walk around in them to speed up the adaptation process.

If I am serious about Crossfit do I NEED a pair of Vibrams?

-No and Yes.  If you are really into Crossfit then learning how to train barefoot or in Vibrams will only increase your performance.  There has been many studies done on the benefits of barefoot training and how some of the fastest sprint and endurance athletes in the world train barefoot or with Five Fingers.  It will only add to another crazy variable to the WOD!

How much do they cost?

I got the new 2010 Vibram’s for about $90 at the store.  The KSO’s are the other kind I would recommend.  They are the #1 seller.  You can find discounts and variety online.

THANK YOU Gina and James Gibson (former clients who I graduated to crossfit) for gifting me these funky, bright, goofy-looking shoes!  I miss you guys terribly but hope you are enjoying crossfit as much as I do! <3