- http://myachillesrupture.com 
I'm two weeks into my Capoeira class and wanted to share some thoughts while I was doing some movements in the class. I'm just over 18mos post op from my Achilles Tendon rupture injury and feel very fortunate to be as far along in this lengthy healing process as I am. I won't be running any marathons anytime soon, but I'm enjoying the process of improving and learning. Practicing Capoeira came at a very good time for me and I look forward to gaining more experience within the art form. Never be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things; you just might enjoy them. :)

http://myachillesrupture.com - This video explains my thoughts on the idea of challenging conventional wisdom when it comes to physical activities that one can perform when they are rehabbing from an Achilles Tendon rupture injury. There's no need to believe that you *MUST* have a certain brand of gear or that you *MUST* follow the same routine each time. The idea is to do something and avoid plateaus in your training/workouts because remaining on a plateau for an extended period of time is not a useful place to be.

I said all of this to really just translate into HAVE FUN! :)

http://myachillesrupture.com - Wanted to show the newest product I plan to add to my fitness regimen. The Speedo Aqua Fitness Gloves are the products I plan to use. This is not an official review since I have not used them yet and don't review products I have not used for an extended period of time.

Speedo products are not new to me. I've had good luck with them so far and have no problem recommending them to you for specific purposes.

The following Speedo products [affiliate links] are the ones I've been using for several months and plan to review them shortly:
Speedo Aqua Fitness Barbells
Speedo Mirrored Sengar Swim Goggles
Speedo Optimus Swim Training Fins

I cannot emphasize enough how important the act of water resistance can be on the healing from an Achilles Tendon rupture injury and the subsequent range of motion and strength increases that you will gain by engaging in a deliberate and systematic program. The act of even walking in water or simply kicking your feet provides benefit not duplicated outside of the water. Don't over-think this. There's no need. There's enough benefit to go around! :)

http://myachillesrupture.com - Wanted to show you some added functionality to the website that I believe will lead to more cross-discussion and community building for anyone who's ruptured their Achilles Tendon, family members, caregivers and anyone who cares to understand this very non-mainstream injury and the mental toughness needed to return to mobility and the longterm goal of physical performance.

http://myachillesrupture.com - I was doing some research recently and came across an interesting link about a soon to be released minimalist footwear product that I'm pretty excited for. Merrell is a footwear and apparel company that has had a significant impact on individuals who enjoy outdoor activities and are concerned with performance. I'm also *REALLY* excited that Merrell is partnering with Vibram on their version of lightweight, versatile and efficient footwear. This is excellent! Collaboration with a prominent company is a much better move than trying to reinvent what is currently working very well.

I certainly don't consider myself an expert on barefoot or minimalist running, but I'm definitely onboard with the science behind it and have been a supporter of Vibram since I unboxed my Vibram FiveFingers Classics 5 months ago. As someone who is over one year removed from an Achilles Tendon rupture injury, my perspectives on fitness and physical performance have been adjusted and I'm much more open to trying different ways to obtain benefit for my entire musculoskeletal system. I've never been shy when it comes to being an active person, but a bit more emphasis on uneven surfaces is something I have quickly learned to embrace and build upon. I can imagine the future release of the Merrell product will lend itself nicely to being able to train outdoors as I've been able to do with my Classics and have thoroughly enjoyed thus far.

I've purchased Merrell footwear before and have been satisfied with the quality, fit and finish of the product and although I see a Bikila or possibly a KSO as my next VFF purchase, if the Merrell product stays true to my past experience, I expect them to be a great addition to the minimalist footwear options of my future. I enjoy the process of incorporating a new product into my evolving fitness regimen as well as providing feedback in the form of a review that is hopefully useful for anyone considering a purchase of the product in the near future.  

February 2011 is when the Merrell Barefoot Collection is scheduled for release. Keep your eyes open! I know mine will be. :)

http://myachillesrupture.com - I've had my Nike Free TR sneakers / trainers / shoes [Livestrong edition] for over 2 months and believe I have clocked enough workouts to provide a comprehensive review of the product.

Please let me know if you have any questions about my review or something I did not cover for this particular shoe.