Barefoot Efficiency

I've written extensively on barefoot and minimalist running in the past. This trend in the running culture is no secret at this point. We continue to learn that this style of running is not for everyone and, even for those who make the transition from heel striking successfully, the journey is not without risk. But for many others, the switch is a sort of re-birth in enthusiasm for the activity.

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Government Peak Mountain Race

The race uses the obvious skylineThis past Saturday saw another one of Alaska's mountain running races go down and I was there for all the suffering. The Government Peak hill climb outside of Palmer took place on a sunny day with 160+ runners showing up for a record turn out. The race staged at the charming Mountain Streams Bed and Breakfast which served as the perfect gathering spot before and after the event.

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Kal's Knoya Ridge Run

As I warmed up near the starting line I tried to remember the last running race I did. It was the Autumn Classic in Nampa, Idaho way back in 1987. Hmmm… 25 years. That's a while. I've certainly done plenty of racing since then but always on a bike or, more recently, on rando skis. Now, with my recent move to Alaska and a new love for mountain running, I decided to toe the line in the first trail running event of the year, Kal's Knoya Ridge Run last Thursday evening.

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Changing Seasons, Changing Focus

Penguin Peak from Bird RidgeThe weather warms, the snow softens and melts and attention turns to the next objective. There's still skiing to be done here in Alaska but I have to drive a little farther to find reasonable conditions. So, the after work agenda changes and mine turns to running. 

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Running Different

Luke Nelson running the way it should be doneBarefoot running. It conjures images of loin-cloth-clad indigenous people running effortlessly through the wilderness and drinking from streams on the fly. Their feet have never been shod and their soles bare the leathery skin to prove it. They run smoothly over varied terrain with an efficient stride honed from a life-time of practice.

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