Raramuri - The Best Runners Of The World
Raramuri, Tarahumara - a small ancient tribe of the Copper Canyons in Mexico.
People who still trade in barter among their tribe mates, eat mostly plant-based diets, are heavy drinkers, and run hundreds of kilometers at Olympic-level paces, just for fun.
The Raramuri came to the forefront quite recently when Christopher McDougall mentioned his interaction with the tribe in his book Born To Run.
Raramuri folks live mostly isolated from the world.
As kids, they travel barefoot. No shoes, or almost no shoes. Sandals made from discarded rubber, tied down with vines, feeling every bit of the surface they run on. Their lifestyle reflects many of the same principles that inspire modern barefoot running shoes today.
Given their natural connection with the ground and the freedom to play and move while growing up in the canyon, they become incredible runners. There’s no formal training, just pure instinct and natural movement.
There have been many instances where people have tried to use the Raramuri to earn money at big events and marathons, but they don’t appreciate worldly gifts and money as much, at least the elders.
There is also mention of how people who leave the tribe and begin living in the modern world often lose some of their natural running abilities.
For the Raramuri, running is not just a part of their day or their workout routine.
It is how they live.
They play games that require them to run over 100 kms. And this is not at a regular pace you and I would run at. There is no “strategy,” just pure grit and the joy of running.
Somehow, despite all of this, they barely get injured. They don’t commonly experience ankle issues, plantar fasciitis, or pronation challenges that many modern runners struggle with.
A lot of this is attributed to the fact that they run barefoot. It allows their feet to become stronger with every run they do.
Every step they take is unique, and not the same part of the foot gets loaded with each stride, which means overuse injuries are much better regulated. This philosophy is one reason why barefoot shoes India and minimalist shoes India are becoming increasingly popular among runners looking to reconnect with natural movement.
The Raramuri tribe has a lot to teach us about running.
Running without worrying about pace, records, or competition, but simply for the joy of movement. Running in connection with the ground beneath you, because only when there is true feedback do you know how to adapt, prevent injuries, and become a better runner.
Go barefoot like the Raramuri.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who are the Raramuri people?
The Raramuri, also known as the Tarahumara, are an indigenous tribe from Mexico’s Copper Canyons, known worldwide for their extraordinary long-distance running abilities.
2. Why do the Raramuri run barefoot?
The Raramuri traditionally run barefoot or in minimal sandals, allowing their feet to move naturally, develop strength, and maintain a strong connection with the ground.
3. What can modern runners learn from the Raramuri?
The Raramuri teach us the importance of natural movement, strong feet, consistency, and running for enjoyment rather than focusing only on performance and speed.