Running shoe advice is probably one of those subjects where one has to take all comments with a pinch of salt. We are all different and what suits one could be disastrous for another. When the OP asked what is the difference between "minimalist and normal running" I immediately wanted to chip in and say stay clear of barefoot running shoes until you know what its all about. But ... having said that if you starting it's probably the bast place to start if you become familiar with the basic requirements. My running story is also a long one, so won't bore you with the details, but as a heavy pronator, I also ran in heavy plodders for years and picked up my unfair share of injuries. Went to a barefoot workshop once and it all made sense. Today I only run in Vivo barefoot shoes. Have changed all my shoes to flat NO HEEL RAISE footwear (even my hiking boots) to make sure I stretch my Achilles and prevent shortening problems. In my transition to Vivo, my calves were way to lazy and weak, so had to take it very easy and start slow with short runs only. Today I am really enjoying my running, consciously working on my form. In a nutshell it boils down to - Run upright (don't chase your head) Leg circles behind not in front Strike beneath your body not in front Run a high cadence - 170 to 190s/m (I just about manage 17) Long story short - Listen to advice, do your research and make a decision. AND START SLOW.
