Table of Contents
Narratives
I Ran 13.1 Miles in Barefoot Shoes
Before we jump in, I'm working on a brand-new premium flexibility eBook. Join the waitlist to be the first to know when it launches.
I’m not a long-distance runner, like at all. I have asthma, but I manage it with breathing techniques and trusty albuterol.
So why did an asthmatic who hates running sign up for a half-marathon? The family convinced me. But if I was going to suffer, I’d do it MY WAY, in barefoot shoes.
Since I practically live in these shoes, the first 5 miles felt okay because I toe-strike naturally. FYI, people tend to run in two ways: toe-striking (on your toes) or heel-striking (landing on your heels, pushing off your toes). In barefoot shoes, toe-striking is a must; otherwise, it hurts.
Here’s the problem: I barely trained (five runs total). My calves got sore, I got lazy, and switched to heel striking for the last 8 miles. Bad idea.
I dragged myself across the finish line in 2 hours and 30 minutes. Feet? Fine. Knees? Wrecked.
Next time? More toe-striking, more training, and less pain. But hey, the body heals fast, I was back to circus training in a few days!
Lastly, if you are curious, I do have my own Barefoot Shoes!
Stay Flexy,
David
Ready to keep the momentum going?
Scroll down to check out today’s challenge and see how you do!
In case you missed it
Movement of the Day
Wall Lat Hold
This stretch opens the lats and side body while improving overhead shoulder mobility.
Watch the demo here.
How to Do It:
Stand facing a wall and place one hand overhead. Tuck your pelvis and gently lean forward until you feel a stretch from your armpit to your hip. Hold for time, then switch sides.
Tips:
• Keep your arm straight
• Avoid arching your lower back
• Tuck your pelvis to deepen the stretch
Many of these exercises are in my printed flexibility routine.
Myth-Busting
MYTH: More stretching always means faster results.
Most people can improve their flexibility by stretching just two to three times per week. Consistency matters far more than doing it every single day.
Stretch with Me
Road Trip Stretching Routine
Heading out on a road trip? Stay loose and prevent stiffness with my go-to stretching routine before and after long drives. Subscribe to @WorkoutsbyDavid for more follow-along routines!
Your Voice Matters
Online Flexibility Masterclass + Live Q&A
Many of you have asked for a live flexibility class where we can stretch together and finish with a Q&A. Before I start planning, I'd love to hear from you.
Today’s Challenge
The Core Endurance Test
Set up on your forearms, keep your body in one straight line from head to heels, and hold your plank for as long as you can without letting your hips sag.
Time yourself and reply with your best hold.
Check out the last challenge here.
How did you do on the last challenge?
Thanks for Reading
Don't miss a thing! Add us to your contacts.
To make sure you never miss a newsletter, please add [email protected] to your safe sender list or contacts. Thanks, Flexy fam!
