The First 5K

I remember my first barefoot 5 K so clearly. I was nervous. I had started my barefoot adventure about 4 months earlier. I had only run barefoot up to the about 4 miles. It is different to go and jog barefoot, practicing technique and having time to look down at the ground in front of me. I knew that going fast would not allow me time to look down to see what I was stepping on but more importantly I was worried that my technique and running form would be compromised by going faster. Well, the result was that I placed first in my age group and ran a time of 21:39! BAREFOOT! I was very excited. BUT, boy did I pay the price. My calves were screaming at me...but my knee didn't hurt! Lesson number one....too fast, too soon. Not having learned enough about proper form and technique. Back to more research during my 2 week recovery period. I walked and did a bit of slow jogging in the weeks following that 5K. I never regretted doing it. It was like all other life lessons to me...as long as you learn from them your good. I did!