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I’ve started two challenges, which together forms the compound phrase: Bare Arms.

Bare: as in barefoot running.

My inspiration for barefoot running is Christopher McDougall, author of Born to Run.  I listened to McDougall talk recently.  One of his tenets is that the mechanical advantage from shoes has not reduced running related injuries.  Mechanical advantages have, however, become a large industry for shoe companies.

McDougall cites the Tarahumara culture for his running discoveries, including a recovery from a running-related injury.  He now runs both barefoot and with Vibram Five Fingers (VFFs), but not exclusively. (Check out Barefoot Ted’s opinion of VFFs.)

And so, I am starting to delve into barefoot running with a beginner 5k training schedule to try to develop better form.  The form may in fact make me slower.  I’m perfectly okay with that.  I like running, and I want to keep running, injury free.  Also another comment, I don’t plan on becoming the radical “Barefoot Pete.”  But, I think it would be nice to have the ability to go on easy runs barefoot, and focus on technique.

I’m three workouts in. It’s neat to revisit n00b running experieces: the feeling of relief at the end of the run as well as confidence that I can run a little bit farther the next time.  I don’t look for cushy surfaces, like grass.  I take it as it comes, whether its the silk of the sidewalk, the coolness of the grass, or the grittiness of the asphalt.  I notice my calves are sore after I run.

Arms: 100 push up challenge.

This is just for fun.  It’s something I picked up from dre.  I’m about half-way through their suggested training plan.  In HB lingo, “I’m getting my chest all yoked.”

I guess in summary it’s fun to have some goals to change things and break any natural monotonies.