new running shoes

adam and i have been giving minimalist running shoes a whirl over here. i have been dealing with runner's knee off and on for the last year or so and that along with a few friends and family members who have improved their form and really like them (plus a decent coupon!) motivated me to give it a try. the idea of having form that helps the body absorb the impact in the healthiest way makes sense to me. i heard somewhere that every time we strike the ground, the joints absorb 7 times our body weight in force. not sure if i worded that exactly right, but if that is true, i'm beginning to wonder how much difference an inch or so of rubber can really make. i have been trying to strike the ground on my mid and forefoot instead of with my heel and i have had less pain in the last few weeks than i have in months. the jury is certainly still out for us since i'm just finishing my first month running in mine. transitioning slowly is important as my calves have to adjust to striking the ground differently. and also, i'm glad there are some other options besides the weird-looking gorilla vibram five fingers, even if tom and adam love them. i don't think we can call ourselves barefoot runners, but it is funny to hear runners discuss such things. this website is very helpful. here is a video on good form, which i think is very clear and scientific. and then one to make fun of us all and our bandwagons...