Born to Run

1. The Tarahumara: Hidden masters of ultra-running

"The Tarahumara would party like this all night, then roust themselves the next morning to face off in a running race that could last not two miles, not two hours, but two full days."

Incredible endurance. The Tarahumara, a reclusive tribe living in Mexico's Copper Canyons, are renowned for their extraordinary running abilities. They can run hundreds of miles without rest, fueled by simple foods and wearing minimal sandals.

Cultural significance. Running is deeply ingrained in Tarahumara culture, serving as a form of transportation, sport, and spiritual practice. Their ball-running races, called "rarajipari," can last for days and involve entire communities.

Natural talent and training. The Tarahumara's running prowess comes from a combination of genetic predisposition, lifelong practice, and a lifestyle that naturally builds endurance. Their success challenges modern notions of training and equipment in distance running.

2. Barefoot running: The natural way humans were meant to move

"Running shoes may be the most destructive force to ever hit the human foot."

Biomechanical advantages. Barefoot running encourages a more natural foot strike, typically landing on the midfoot or forefoot rather than the heel. This can lead to:

• Reduced impact forces
• Improved proprioception (awareness of body position)
• Strengthened foot muscles

Injury prevention. Proponents argue that barefoot running can help prevent common running injuries by:

• Promoting better form
• Reducing overstriding
• Encouraging a more efficient running gait

Gradual transition. Experts recommend a slow transition to barefoot or minimalist running to allow the feet and legs to adapt, as sudden changes can lead to injury.

3. The evolution of human running: From survival to sport

"To run an antelope to death, Lieberman determined, all you have to do is scare it into a gallop on a hot day."

Persistence hunting. Early humans likely used endurance running to hunt prey, chasing animals until they collapsed from exhaustion. This "persistence hunting" theory explains many unique human adaptations:

• Efficient sweating system
• Lack of body hair
• Springy tendons in feet and legs

Evolutionary advantages. Running shaped human evolution, contributing to:

• Larger brain size (due to increased protein intake)
• Social cooperation (group hunting)
• Problem-solving skills (tracking and predicting animal behavior)

Modern implications. Understanding our evolutionary history as runners can inform current training methods and explain why humans find joy and fulfillment in long-distance running.

4. Modern running shoes: A mixed blessing for runners

"The best shoes are the worst."

Cushioning paradox. Despite advances in shoe technology, running injury rates haven't decreased. Research suggests that:

• Heavily cushioned shoes may lead to harder impacts
• Motion control features can interfere with natural foot movement
• Expensive shoes are associated with higher injury rates

Natural alternatives. Many runners are turning to minimalist shoes or barefoot running to:

• Strengthen foot muscles
• Improve proprioception
• Encourage a more natural running form

Individual approach. The ideal footwear varies from person to person, depending on factors like:

• Running style
• Foot shape
• Training goals
• Running surfaces

5. The science of endurance: Why humans are built for long-distance running

"We can run in conditions that no other animal can run in."

Physiological adaptations. Humans have unique features that make us excellent endurance runners:

• Efficient cooling system (sweating)
• Long legs with springy tendons
• Large gluteal muscles
• Nuchal ligament for head stabilization

Respiratory advantages. Unlike other mammals, humans can:

• Breathe independently of their stride
• Take multiple breaths per stride
• Maintain a steady pace for long periods

Mental edge. Humans' cognitive abilities allow for:

• Strategic pacing
• Visualization and goal-setting
• Overcoming mental barriers during long runs

6. Ultra-running culture: A blend of ancient wisdom and modern passion

"Recreation has its reasons."

Diverse motivations. Ultra-runners are drawn to the sport for various reasons:

• Personal challenge and self-discovery
• Connection with nature
• Spiritual or meditative experiences
• Sense of community

Shared values. The ultra-running community often emphasizes:

• Mutual support over competition
• Respect for nature and the environment
• Simplicity and minimalism
• Pushing personal limits

Ancient parallels. Modern ultra-running shares similarities with traditional endurance practices:

• Tarahumara ball races
• Persistence hunting
• Native American messenger runners

7. Caballo Blanco's vision: Bridging cultures through running

"We're all Running People, as the Tarahumara have always known."

Cultural exchange. Micah True, known as Caballo Blanco, organized a race to:

• Bring together Tarahumara and international runners
• Showcase Tarahumara running culture
• Provide economic support to the Tarahumara

Mutual respect. The race aimed to foster understanding between:

• Traditional and modern running cultures
• Indigenous and non-indigenous people
• Different approaches to endurance and competition

Lasting impact. Caballo Blanco's efforts helped:

• Raise awareness of Tarahumara culture
• Inspire runners worldwide
• Challenge conventional notions about training and gear

8. The power of community in running: Lessons from the Tarahumara

"Korima sounds like karma and functions the same way, except in the here and now."

Shared experience. Tarahumara running events are community affairs:

• Entire villages participate in races
• Spectators provide food and support
• Running strengthens social bonds

Cooperative spirit. The Tarahumara approach to running emphasizes:

• Mutual aid (korima) over individual achievement
• Collective responsibility for success
• Sharing resources and knowledge

Modern applications. Ultra-runners often adopt similar community-oriented practices:

• Pacing and supporting fellow runners
• Sharing supplies at aid stations
• Celebrating finishers regardless of placing

9. Nutrition secrets of the Tarahumara: Simple, natural fuel for endurance

"Eat like a poor person, as Coach Joe Vigil likes to say, and you'll only see your doctor on the golf course."

Plant-based diet. The Tarahumara primarily consume:

• Whole grains (corn, in particular)
• Beans
• Squash
• Wild greens
• Chia seeds

Natural energy drinks. Traditional Tarahumara beverages include:

• Iskiate (chia seed drink)
• Pinole (roasted ground corn)
• Tesguino (fermented corn beer)

Health benefits. This diet contributes to:

• Low rates of heart disease and diabetes
• Sustained energy for long runs
• Quick recovery after intense efforts

10. The mind-body connection in running: Overcoming mental barriers

"You have to be in tune with your body, and know when you can push it and when to back off."

Mental toughness. Successful ultra-runners develop:

• Ability to push through discomfort
• Strategies for managing negative thoughts
• Techniques for staying focused over long periods

Body awareness. Long-distance running requires:

• Constant self-assessment
• Adaptation to changing conditions
• Recognition of warning signs (injury, dehydration)

Flow state. Many runners describe achieving a state of:

• Effortless movement
• Heightened awareness
• Dissolution of ego

11. The Ultimate Race: A clash of running cultures in the Copper Canyons

"It'll be the greatest ultra of all time, and you know who's going to see it? Only crazy people. Only you Más Locos."

Diverse participants. The race brought together:

• Tarahumara champions
• Elite American ultra-runners
• Amateur enthusiasts
• Barefoot running advocates

Cultural exchange. The event fostered:

• Mutual respect between different running traditions
• Sharing of techniques and strategies
• Breaking down stereotypes and preconceptions

Unexpected outcomes. The race revealed:

• The universality of running as a human pursuit
• The potential for sport to bridge cultural divides
• The importance of preserving traditional knowledge and practices

Last updated: January 22, 2025