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Not to run on concrete. I have completely ruined my knees.
On the other hand I love running on concrete, even barefoot!
I'm really jealous. It's all broken glass and misery round near me!
So you only run trail now? Wouldn't some road running shoes with cusioning help?
Contrary to popular belief, more cushioning from shoes leads to higher loading in the knees
I didnt know that! How is that so?
It's likely a culmination of a few different factors. It seems like with softer shoes , you hit the ground harder. A bunch of studies have shown that same effect. One group even did it with load cells implanted directly in people's knees and showed that the knee force is higher. Depending the shoe, some are even designed the change your running form, and that could increase your knee loads, too. Lots of shoes out there these days that make it feel like you're wearing sketchers shape-ups.
I have really chunky running shoes that do help but it just isn't worth the pain. I can pretty much only run on grass or treadmills now so I prefer to do a lot of walking/hiking instead. I am approaching 40 as well so have to be a bit more careful in general too.
I'm in my mid fifties. I run mostly in Vibram FiveFingers and occasionally (like today) barefoot. I'm just weird that way.
Me and my flat feet are jealous.
Anyone can run barefoot (except maybe if you are diabetic, as you has less feeling on the feet in this case). But be very careful, train your form, and don't do TMTS, that's like being a beginner again.
Good quality asphalt or concrete are perfect surface. I'm personally fond of the very smooth asphalt of the sidewalk in my neighborhood.
A pair of handmade huaraches or cheap minimalist shoes can be a good complement.
Doing a C25K, and seeing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSIDRHUWlVo every month is a good plan. You can cross train (like bike) while transitioning. It will take 3 to 12 months to be back to your actual level.