You name it! After eight marathons, I’ve had my fair share of foot issues. I thought it was par for the course and candidly, I was proud because I thought those battle wounds were little trophies for my hard work and commitment.
I felt like Rocky Balboa.
Dry Skin…Blisters…Calluses…Black Toes…
It never really dawned on me to do anything about it. I spent most of my time focused on training and nutrition, not to mention the latest running gear and equipment. Rarely did I prioritize recovery and sleep.
I don’t look at my feet too often. I usually hop in the shower after a run and scurry out the door with just enough time to catch the bus for my long commute to work. Rarely do I take a second to ponder at my feet. I don’t remember why, but one day I did, and boy oh boy what a sad state of affairs it was.
I don’t know if it was age or wisdom (probably just common sense), but I decided to do something about it. I took a dab of body lotion and started moisturizing my feet daily. Then, I added essential oils like Tea Tree Oil, Lavender, and Peppermint for their anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. After a few weeks, my feet were softer, healthier (and better looking!), but buying all of the individual ingredients was expensive and time-consuming.
Unable to find a complete all-in-one product, I set out on a mission to create one. After months of research and a lot of experimentation in my tiny studio apartment kitchen, I came up with a solution specifically designed for runners that cleanses, hydrates, heals, and soothes sore feet. Blunt feedback from my running club friends helped refine the product into what it is today.
Hindsight is 2020, but I believe that neglecting my feet held me back from running to my fullest potential. After failing to qualify for the Boston Marathon two years in a row, I prioritized recovery (including my foot care routine) and I was finally able to earn a spot in the race.