I'm glad you enjoy!

I think if I'd been on a road with cars (this is a cycle path, and the other one to the left is a foot path), it would've been a bit disorienting. I have astigmatism, so lights at night look much larger than they are, especially in the fog.

Ok so I tried out those new barefoot shoes. It didn't take a lot of getting used to, I guess I do walk genuinely barefoot enough for it not to be strange. It was about -5°C and dry and I wasn't cold at all walking. They say on the website that you'll be warmer in them than you think because of increased blood flow, I think that turned out to be true! When I was waiting for the bus for 10 mins, I was super cold though. Can't wait to try them for running, I only walked about 5k to work for a start.

I considered to wear them for a hike, but was glad I decided against it because the path was like this:

Oh I did know that it's not the same. I don't actually know my cadence, I just estimated that it must be too high since I walk (ie not run, so have both feet on the ground between steps) and am not that tall. Thanks for the helpful breakdown either way!

I'll make sure to update you! Good day to you too

I can't really financially justify a gym membership rn. I do have some good calisthenics and resistance band exercises I learned in physiotherapy. I'll look into the the sand bags! Thanks for the advice

Wise and true words! I've even seen the websites of barefoot shoes recommend you ease into it to give your feet time to adjust. I'll definitely follow that recommendation.

I think I will be going for these: https://www.groundies.com/uk/barefoot-shoes-women/sports-shoes/groundies-active-knit-women-teal-jade.html. Reviews are pretty good (I'm glad I understand German and French haha) and they're made in Europe

Yeah that's a great way of seeing it! Makes self improvement much less daunting, no matter the kind.

I've got the vegan Chelsea boots. Since the shaft isn't super tight and also stretchy, I can turn my ankle in any direction I think. Pretty important for balance in icy conditions!