Barefoot Running by Michael Sandler

Michael Sandler is a true barefoot runner, but it wasn't so long ago he was told he would never run again. In 2006, Michael was involved in a serious accident in which his femur, hip and knee were crushed. He was told by doctors that he would never run again, perhaps never walk again and may even lose his leg. Today, he has a titanium femur and hip, a missing ACL and a one-inch leg length discrepancy. However, he runs 10-20 miles a day, mostly barefoot which he says made his recovery possible.


Barefoot Running

Prior to his accident, Michael used to wear custom insoles and custom orthotics while running. When he started back running after his accident, he suffered injury after injury. When he sought professional help, he was told that he would never run again. Then he decided to give barefoot running a try. Running without shoes taught him how to find his natural form, to run light and free, to get balanced and become more efficient through feeling the ground with his bare feet.

Michael Sandler shares what he has learned in Barefoot Running, a step-by-step guide to help runners overcome and prevent injuries by learning how to run barefoot. His book teaches runners how to transition to barefoot running or minimal shoes properly without risking injury. Michael Sandler has coached athletes professionally for over 20 years. However, his greatest feat has been his ability to overcome injuries from a near-death accident which threatened his ability to ever walk or run again. He credits barefoot running with his incredible recovery.

Watch this video of Michael's incredible story and see how he easily runs barefoot in icy cold conditions and various other difficult terrains. And he does all of this despite his injuries and leg length discrepancy! 

Barefoot running didn't just alter Michael's running style, it altered his life. He became more peaceful and he enjoyed running more than ever. He learned how to heal his body by connecting to the earth. He did this gradually, allowing his feet to wake up and get stronger. Without shoes, the skin strengthens and becomes less sensitive and blood circulation to the feet is enhanced. This adaptation enables barefoot runners to run in both cold and hot climates as their feet develop and become stronger.

ABC News also covered Michael's remarkable and inspirational story in the following informative video:

Michael recommends that you begin running barefoot gradually--doing 100 yards the first day, take a day off, then 200 yards the next day, a day off, and gradually increasing as your body is ready for it. He believes the body knows how to strengthen itself and running naturally will improve your running stride, form and performance while you experience fewer injuries. Your feet and arches will become stronger and you will feel a greater spiritual connection to the world.

It is not necessary to run completely barefoot to experience all the benefits it offers. I have been running in minimal shoes (Vibram fivefingers) for over 10 years and I would never consider running in cushioned shoes again.  

Studies now support that landing heel-first while running causes a transient impact of three times the body's weight. As barefoot runners land on their forefoot or mid-foot, running barefoot can have three times less impact than running in a shoe.

Barefoot Running by Michael Sandler is a comprehensive guide to barefoot running. It can help you overcome your inhibitions about barefoot running. This book will help you manage your feet as you introduce them to the earth. You will learn how to deal with running on different surfaces and in hot and cold temperatures. The book also includes nutrition tips and information on barefoot benefits for seniors and children.

Barefoot Running by Michael Sandler can help you transition safely to barefoot or minimalist running. You will learn how to run light and free, naturally. If barefoot running can help Michael heal his broken body, surely it can help us run injury free! 

Back to top of Barefoot Running by Michael Sandler

Return to Barefoot Running



FTC Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying  purchases.
Learn more.

NEW FEATURE - DISQUS COMMENTS!

Be the first to comment.
Login using Facebook, Twitter, Google or Disqus.

Loading Comments
#disqus_thread { min-height: 200px; }

Recent Articles

  1. 5 Ways Mindfulness Can Enhance Your Running

    Aug 25, 23 10:31 AM

    Enhance Your Running

    Discover how mindfulness can enhance your running experience. Elevate your focus and running performance with this transformative technique.

    Read More

  2. How to Enjoy Runner's High More Often

    Jul 16, 23 10:12 AM

    Enjoy Runners High More Often

    Unlock the secret to experiencing runners high more often with our tips. Elevate your runs to new heights and embrace the joy of running

    Read More

  3. How to Change Limiting Beliefs

    Jun 28, 23 12:47 PM

    Change Limiting Beliefs

    Do you have a limiting belief that is contributing to your running injuries and preventing you from achieving your full potential?

    Read More

  4. Running with the Hash House Harriers

    Jun 05, 23 08:13 AM

    Hash House Harriers

    If you have never trying running with the Hash House Harriers, you could really be missing out on a great adventure!

    Read More

  5. Second toes black nail

    May 09, 23 10:58 AM

    I would appreciate any idea or tip(s) so as to overcome second toe black nails on my right and left foot under certain circumstances. Given the following:

    Read More

  6. A Common Barefoot Running Injury

    May 01, 23 02:20 PM

    Common Barefoot Running Injury

    This common barefoot running injury can be avoided when you know the cause and how to prevent it. And I know this from experience!

    Read More

  7. How to Overcome Race Performance Anxiety

    Apr 14, 23 01:27 PM

    Race Performance Anxiety

    How does race performance anxiety affect you? Are you feeling excited and looking forward to the race you’ve been training for, or do you just wish it was over?

    Read More

  8. Where to run in Hurghada, Egypt!

    Apr 04, 23 06:14 AM

    Running in Hurghada

    Running in a new area is both exciting and a little scary. What will I see during this run? What will I discover? Hurghada kindly provided a few surprises and a hidden 'trail'!

    Read More

  9. The Best Way to Carry Your Phone While Running!

    Mar 21, 23 11:51 AM

    Phone Holder for Running

    Do you wish there was a simpler, more discreet way to carry even your large phone while running? Are you frustrated with phone carriers for runners that are bulky and uncomfortable?

    Read More

  10. The Link Between Nutrition and Exercise Performance: Healthy Habits for Runners

    Mar 08, 23 08:07 AM

    Nutrition and Exercise

    A nutritionally balanced body is essential to a runner’s health and performance. Enhance your overall performance with these healthy habits to support the physical pressures experienced during runnin…

    Read More