Using Luna Sandals at 68 in first half-marathon...

by Brian Donovan
(Irish midlands.)

Near finish line at first half-marathon...

Near finish line at first half-marathon...



I am a relatively newcomer to running, as I started with a 0-3k group when I turned 65. Now, I am 68, running regularly with a local athletics club (as well as cycling with a different cycling club). As a runner, I use Luna sandals and have had no problems, or injuries (other than one over-training injury which was totally self-inflicted).

Before running, I had been studying footwear and posture, and upon turning 60, stopped wearing shoes and only wore either flat sandals or flat shoes. My posture improved; I worked on foot exerices; and walked long distances (10-15k) on a regular basis, mostly in forest areas. This meant walking on variable ground.

In the 0-3k running group, the coach/trainer made a point at the beginning of commenting on people's shoes. She looked at mine and questioned my presence in the group. I explained about the science of flat footwear (Irene Davis as from your quote) and continued with the training. After the group ended, a few of us ran a 5k run in a local town, and a new athletics club was started.

The club established itself (believe it or not) a week before the covid lockdown, which meant personal training, but no group work for a while.

In March of this year, I ran my first half-marathon (after appropriate training and preparation). Attached is a photo of me, near the finish line.

Smiling broadly, in mid air, in sandals, is not how I ever imagined completing my first long run. However, I have another in September and am fully prepared (never mind with 5k; 10k; 10 mile runs during the summer) for it.

Brian

Comments for Using Luna Sandals at 68 in first half-marathon...

Click here to add your own comments

Fantastic!
by: Jackie

Congratulations Brian! What a wonderful barefoot success story and a perfect picture of you at the finish of your first half!. We need to hear more of these inspirational stories as the positive aspects of running in minimal shoes has been so underrated!

Please keep us updated on your barefoot running adventure!

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and add your own comments! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Are you a barefoot runner?.



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. It's an Awesome Product!

    Aug 28, 25 09:25 AM

    My iPhone 16 fits perfectly!
    I went out for a walk this morning and I used the #PRPocket for the first time. I had to check at least 3 times because I thought I lost my phone (iPhone

    Read More

  2. Running in Hot Weather: What Every Runner Needs to Know!

    Aug 14, 25 01:00 PM

    Female running on bridge with colorful flowers

    Hot summer runs can feel brutal—but they don’t have to be. With the right strategies, you can keep your pace steady, your body cool, and your mindset strong.

    Read More

  3. Sick of Dieting? You’re Not Alone — And There Is a Better Way.

    Jul 30, 25 12:18 PM

    Young woman happy after losing weight

    It's not your willpower that’s the problem — it’s your subconscious beliefs. I help people reprogram the beliefs that keep them stuck, so they can finally lose weight for good — without the constant…

    Read More

  4. Tips and Drills to Improve Your Running Cadence

    Jul 25, 25 12:52 PM

    Runner demonstrating quick, light steps to improve running cadence

    Learn how small changes can help you run faster, reduce injury, and feel stronger on every run.

    Read More

  5. Give Yourself a Self-Myofascial Release at Home with a Foam Roller!

    Jun 28, 25 07:19 AM

    Female athlete using foam roller to prevent running injuries

    Feeling sore after a run? Don’t skip your recovery! Foam rolling is one of the easiest ways to release tight muscles, boost flexibility, and prevent injuries.

    Read More

  6. The Overlooked Key to Better Performance and Fewer Injuries

    Jun 13, 25 01:13 PM

    Male runner on beach  running relaxed and injury free

    Most runners focus on building strength, endurance, and speed—but there’s a hidden performance booster that often gets ignored: relaxation.

    Read More

  7. 5 Ways to Speed Injury Recovery!

    May 02, 25 01:30 PM

    Smiling and happy female runner running injury free

    Struggling with a running injury and feeling frustrated or stuck? Let's take charge of our own healing so we can quickly recover from any running injury!

    Read More

  8. Want to Run Stronger and Feel Better Doing It?

    Apr 19, 25 10:14 AM

    Female runner feeling happy proud at finishing line

    Discover how positive affirmations for running can completely shift your mindset and transform your runs—from start to finish.

    Read More

  9. Do You or Someone you Know Suffer from Achilles Tendonitis?

    Mar 28, 25 03:14 PM

    Diagram of Achilles Tendon problems and Tendonitis

    Find out more about this frustrating condition, including why active recovery is essential and exercises to speed recovery.

    Read More

  10. Every runner needs to master this essential drill!

    Mar 17, 25 01:55 PM

    Young male runner running fast on a road on a beautiful sunny day

    The 100-Up exercise is a highly effective drill that enhances both running technique and performance. It can be practiced indoors or outdoors, and it also serves as a valuable tool for injury recover…

    Read More