Running Roundup – a collection of running-related links around the Internet
* Here’s a pretty good recap of the issues underlying the Vibrams false advertising lawsuit (which was settled last week). I’m not a barefoot runner so I don’t really have a dog in this fight, but I can see where some people might have felt misled by Vibrams. This article includes Vibrams’ claims, among them:
Imagine footwear that might just make running safer and healthier, by encouraging a forefoot strike and a more natural running form that creates less impact on the knees, hips and lower back. That is what Vibram FiveFingers can offer.
I previously discussed some of the research about foot strike, and Vibrams’ claim that a forefoot strike “make[s] running safer and healthier” seems to run up against studies finding that forefoot strikes may increase metatarsal stress fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and other foot injuries.
* More people are running, especially adventure races, while bar-type activities (billiards, darts, etc.) are becoming less popular. But hey, bars can try to tap into this trend with more beer runs, eh?
* I don’t do much running at night (and if I do, it’s almost certainly on a treadmill), but if you do and you’re looking for ways to be safer, take a look at the smartphone app bSafe. Among other features, it’s got a “timer mode” that tracks your location by GPS and if you haven’t “checked in” by a set time, it’ll alert your “friends” and give them access to your live location.
* Another item for the “you’re never too old to start running” file, or rather, “reasons to keep running so your old age will be spry”: “Lifelong exercise can help you maintain speed and fitness as you age.”