A colleague of mine recently sent me a copy of a Men’s Health article on the Tarahumara people of Mexico. In essence it totally called into question all that I have ever learned about running, diet, running shoes and what is really important in life. Pretty profound when you realize it is about an Indian tribe from the high hills of Mexico with no real wealth or economy, whose people run bareoot or in sandles. Now I am not suggesting we all pack up and move south, only that there are some things we can learn from this article and the Tarahumara.
1) Many runner’s foot injuries are now thought to be caused and aggravated from too comfortable a shoe? Several shoe manufacturer’s are designing less cushioned shoes for a more barefoot like feel.
2) One should run and land from the forefoot and not land on the heel, keeping your shoulders directly over your hips and keeping your arms high and elbows pumping. Picture running up a steep hill at all times and you will have the motion.
3) The best diet for strength and conditioning and high protein is not chicken, eggs and red meat, but vegetables, wild grains, and legumes. Read the full story.
4) Lastly, run, run, run, and run. If you are unable to do this to start, then walk and walk until you can run. But learn the right way and add years to your life without the nagging injuries. A treadmill is a great tool for this because of the incline capabilities and softer landing surface.
You can see how with more energy, fewer injuries and pains, the prospect of a healthier life and a passion for fitness allows the Tarahumara to have little or no heart disease and happier lives. By the way, the article talks about their proximity to drug smugglers and the danger therein, their love of alcohol and gambling and the fact that many smoke. Why is it they are healthier and more fit than us with less stress? Read the article and start running everyday!
