Newton Shoes - A question on usage strategy...

jmoss70

I have owned and used Newtons before.  I'm working on improving my gait and I believe that what the Newtons do in terms of encouraging a more midfoot strike and better gait is good. 

Has anyone used Newtons in more of a "hybrid" situation with their "regular" running shoes?  I am thinking of implementing Newtons on my shorter runs a couple of days per week but then using my Brooks Adrenaline shoes for Mile Repeats and Long Runs.  

 

 

scarlett

I'm a Newton convert, I use my Distancia for all long runs, and MV2 for track and races. I'm sure you could use them as a hybrid as long as you make sure you are incorporating the form the Newtons encourage (forward lean, midlfoot strike, fast turnover picking your heels up). Dont hop into your other shoes and start heal striking, and then midfoot in the newtons.

imc1792

wow, uncanny timing as I have been knawing on a newton issue too. I am a recent convert (Oct 2011). The transition to my Motion went well, however, as intensity picked up in my out-season, my calfs continue to re-act. One week the right calf siezes up, 2 weeks later the left.

I was going to ask whether others had this problem and did hybrid doing my repeats in non-newtons and keep the long/short runs in the newtons. I have been massaging like heck and last night's repeats seemed to have been better.

new2703

Just purchased first pair of Newtons. Literally, 40 minutes ago. Curious to run in them. I have working on changing gait for past couple of months and didn't want purchase till I was ready for fear of increased calf strain and possible metatarsal fractures. Go slow listen to body

rtagher

I don't use Newtons, but I do run in Vibram Five Fingers once per week (usually for tempo runs); I use my traditional running shoes (albeit minimal) for speed work on the track or long runs. I feel that this helps remind me what good form feels like. I've been doing this for about 2 years and I don't have a problem going back and forth between the 2 kinds and think you should be fine.

Steve Ross

I am a convert for a year now using Newtons in since early 2011. I use to have chronic hx of calf(gastrocs/soleous) issues when I started to pick up mileage in the spring and I would have to shut down for 2 to 3 weeks to heal. Pre 2011 I was a heal striker suppinator(not a high % of peeps do this I did) and started to focus on changing my strike. It took a lot of focus and not get lazy to lose form. Well my running form did improve and my nagging calf issues started to disappear. 2 yrs later I am a mid/forfoot striker and love Newtons. Break in period took a month before the shoes went on for my long runs. I still use my Nike Vomeros when my legs are trashed at times though.
@Jim sounds like a good start incorperating with Jenna's advice.
@Tim keep at it, if you feel your calves start to twinge shut it down that day, don't work through it. They are telling you something and want you to listen to them. Massage and TLC till the next workout. Good luck!l

imc1792

@steve, thanks for insight. I am very carefull now with z4 workouts as this is when calves feel it most. I was giving the newtons one more week as I have an A-race HIM in 4 weeks and had the dilema whether to scrap them, hang in there, etc.

imc1792

@jim, sorry for kind of hijacking your thread...... during my transition, i did one run per week in my newtons (15min to start) and over 2 months increased the frequnency/time each week. I did not feel switching between the shoes had any impact and when I was in my saucany's my mind focused on the finding the gait/feel i had in the newtons. i really lke the newtons and what they done for my gait and cadence and why i was postponing moving back to hybrid model with an a-race 4-5 weeks out.

Al Truscott

I started using Newton in Fall 2009. I have evolved to the following strategy, which seems similar to what others describe here:

• "Speed" work: intervals on the track or treadmill: racing flats - Mizuno Wave Universe. These are actually flatter and lighter than VFFs; I also use these for 5K, 10K, and HM races

• Bricks and shorter tempo runs (HMP/MP): Newton MV2; I also use these for triathlons

• Easy and long runs: Saucony Kinvara 2. If I'm traveling I take only one shoe with me, this is the one.

All of these shoes have a fairly flat profile (1-5 mm rise from toe to heel). The Saucony's have a wide base, which makes them more stable underfoot for a longer run. But I go faster for the same effort (HR) in the Newton's and Universe's

When I first started using the Newton's, I had no problems with calf tenderness. I believe I am a heel striker of sorts, at least the outer heel wears the most on my shoes, but I am lighter weight (147#) and have a light stride.

 

scarlett

One suggestion for the Newtons dont go completely to forefoot. I worked with the Newton rep when I bought mine, and a lot of people transitioning go right to forefoot becasue of the lugs on the bottom, they are meant to be a midfoot strike and at some point your heel should touch the ground. That was the major thing they corrected at the newton running clinic. That seems to be the most common case for calf issues and strains when transitioning.

jmoss70

The posts have convinced me NOT to buy a pair of Newtons with just 9 weeks to go until IMCDA & while nursing a high hamstring strain.

Peter Greagg

Just thought I should chime in to repeat advice I received in the Forums when I asked a similar question about an approprite transition strategy from a "motion control shoe" (ie a heavy one with orthotics, Brooks Beasts) to a lighter shoe.

It was pointed out to me that it could take a significant time period to adjust to a lighter shoe — as in as much as a year.

I couldn't find the post but will keep looking.

Peter Greagg

http://members.endurancenation.us/Training/TrainingForums/tabid/101/aft/4825/Default.aspx
I think this was one of the threads I was looking for about the need to allow yourself to adjust to a more neutral running shoe. There was another on (I think?) where Chris Whyte gave some good advice.

Steve Ross

@Peter thanks for the repost with more thought provoking insight

charris

Also see:

http://endurancenation.us.dnnmax.co...aspx#82178

 

jws504

I tried to get into Newtons last year and tried too fast. I ran a 10K in them after only about 4 or 5 runs and really messed myself up. Developed a wicked case of plantar fascitiis that plagued me most of last year. What works for me now are New Balance Trail Minimus that I wear on my Tuesday run and all bricks 45 minutes and under. For long runs and bricks longer than 45 min I wear Kinvaras. Sold my Newtons on ebay.