Barefoot running has gotten increasingly popular over the last couple of years, becoming mainstream enough to be featured in a recent story in the New York Times.
Still, even at the largest marathons and half marathons, usually no more than a handful of runners toe the line in their bare feet.
But on December 12, the Barefoot Runners of India Foundation (BRIF) will host a half marathon in Mubai where shoeless runners will be in the majority. In fact, running barefoot is required.
BRIF is calling it the first barefoot half marathon in the world, and they're expecting around 300 participants. According the BRIF's managing trustee Anand Anantharaman, "Barefoot runners are in demand these days. In the US, they are looked at with immense respect. Indians can easily attain world acclaim in this as we have it in our blood."
If you're interested in running the race don't book your flight to India just yet. This year the event will be limited to residents of Thane (a suburb of Mubai), and students at Mubai University.
Have you ever run a marathon or half marathon barefoot, or do you know of another event that should officially be titled the world's first barefoot half marathon? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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Comments
Oh wow! I haven't quite yet run a marathon in running shoes let alone try barefoot! That would be quite interesting.
Barefoot? Wow!
I like it. From what I've heard, it's better on the body. What do you think?
I get asked a lot about barefoot running. I usually have to conceal the snicker that initially pops up on my face. I just don't get it. Sure, strengthen your feet by being barefoot with walking, yoga, but the pounding of running? In other countries, they walk around barefoot most of their lives and their feet are accustomed to it. But here in America we have worn shoes since our birth, why change things now?
I run barefoot, and have run 5k races barefoot. It improves your form tremendously, no need for support. Its not for the closed minded individual.
bravo barefoot, i do my trails barefoot but not in the winter
Did the san antonio marathon barefoot this year in 4:01:31. God gave us pretty amazing shoes with built in sensors and everything. It's funny to me how people think they can beat his design or millions of years of evolution. That's what makes me laugh inside.
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