Merrell Go Barefoot Iphone App

Merrell has released a line of barefoot running shoes last year with the Merrell Barefoot Collection.  To further help the runners reap the benefits for running barefoot, Merrell introduces the Go Barefoot App which can be downloaded for free at the App Store.

The Merrell Barefoot App is not like the usual fitness app for running.  Aside from monitoring your mileage or showing you the distance and pace while running, Go Barefoot is like a training coach to guide you for 40 days in running barefoot or with a minimalist shoe.

Key features of the App:

• Go Barefoot with 4 stages of expert training
• Put your skills to the test with 4 fun Barefoot challenges
• Learn proper foot strike, cadence and posture
• Watch & learn with video clips, training instructions and tips and tricks
• Track your time and distance with GPS
• Run to the beat with the Barefoot playlist or choose your own
• Share your progress on Facebook

Home Screen of the Merrell Go Barefoot iPhone App

The forty day Go Barefoot guide is divided in to four stages.  Stage 1 starts with the basics.  Stage 2 focuses on Good Form.  Stage 3 takes you higher with speed and distance drills.  Finally, Stage 4 gets you ready for a race.

Each stage comes with a focus area and a video to get you started.

Each stage can be completed in a number of days.  You can’t move to the next stage without completing the workouts.

Each day will then provide you with an activity to complete.  It can be some drills, walking or a running barefoot.  Time and distance can be recorded.  The app also works with music.

Session page tell you the current activity to complete.

SUMMARY

The Merrell Go Barefoot App will motivate runners who are interested to try running in barefoot.  For those who are clueless on how to start a barefoot run, this app is highly recommended.  It is a complete guide that doesn’t scare beginners.  The video and the introduction in each stage makes you at ease.

However, it lacks other feature that will make you keep on using the app.  Once the 40 days are over, what’s next?

Press release from Merrell

Merrell Debuts First and Free Barefoot Running Training and Education Application

iPhone Training Program Takes Runners from Traditional Running to Barefoot Running Form in Forty Days

ROCKFORD, Mich. (March 1, 2011) – Continuing to focus on the importance of proper running form and technique with its launch of its barefoot shoes, Merrell introduces the first-ever barefoot running training and education application for the iPhone. The free and fun application takes enthusiasts on a forty day adventure into the world of barefoot form. From posture tips, body alignment and barefoot walking, the ultimate challenge for barefoot newbies will end with a 1.5 mile barefoot run.  Barefoot enthusiasts are invited to download the free application and start the barefoot challenge at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/go-barefoot/id421390163?mt=8&ls=1.This app dovetails with Merrell’s Bareform Training Technique that incorporates proper running form, body strengthening and a flexibility regime for top condition training. For further information on technique, training and form of barefoot adventure visit Merrell’s comprehensive barefoot education site www.merrell.com/barefoot.

“Our forty day training and education app is built to help those that want to start barefoot running and adventure in a safe, fun and easy way,”  said Craig Throne, vice president of global marketing at Merrell. “An added bonus are iTunes mixes that allow people to literally run to the beat of their own feet by matching foot landing with a 180 beat per minute cadence of natural form running. We hope all of the educational and training tools we build will emphasize the fun of barefoot adventure and getting outside for people of all athletic abilities.”

Merrell® is a brand within the Outdoor Group, a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. Merrell believes in encouraging everyone to get outside, be active and have fun, and is the largest outdoor brand partner of the National Park Foundation.