In the world of athletics, Kenyans are among the most talented in running. Renowned for their long-distance running prowess, Kenyan athletes have consistently dominated international marathons, half-marathons, and cross-country races.
Among the many factors contributing to their success, one stands out as both surprising and enlightening: Running barefoot, especially during the early stages of their training.
The old days when Vivian Cheruiyot(Olympic Champion, World Champion, Commonwealth Champion, African Champion, DL Winner, London Marathon winner) won her first Kenyan Championships in 1999 when she was 15 years old. When she started running she ran barefoot.
The Origins of Barefoot Running in Kenya
For many Kenyan children especially in public primary schools, running is not just a sport but a culture. From Going to school in the early mornings(over 1Kilometres away) to Growing up in rural areas where shoes might be a luxury, children are often introduced to running without the cushioning and support of modern footwear.
Kenyan children learn to place their feet carefully on the ground so as they don’t get hurt, they learn to land gently, lightly and gliding rather than pounding it
They develop a natural stride, landing softly on the forefoot or midfoot, a technique that minimizes impact and maximizes efficiency. This natural form, which many now recognize as the hallmark of efficient running, has its roots in the barefoot tradition culture.
Sabina Chebichi, aka, “The Petticoat Princess,” won her first marathon in 1973, running barefoot and wearing a petticoat. She was the first Kenyan woman to win a medal (bronze in the 800 meter) at the Commonwealth Games in 1974. Born in 1959 in Nairobi, Kenya.
Cultural and Environmental Factors
Running barefoot in Kenya is also intertwined with cultural and environmental factors. Many Kenyan athletes grow up in regions where the terrain is rugged for example areas like Marakwet, kerio valley and greater Rift Valley.
A Lesson in Resilience
The Kenyan barefoot running tradition is more than just a training method; it’s a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human body.
The diminutive all-time 1,500-metre great Faith Kipyegon grew up in western Kenya’s Rift Valley, which is renowned as a breeding ground for runners.
The world record holder’s journey began in the ever-changing muddy, dusty and hilly terrain of Ndababit village, 233km (144 miles) west of Kenya’s capital Nairobi.
“I used to run barefoot from my village to the primary school because in Kenya, schools are so far that you always end up running in order to reach them in time,” Kipyegon told Al Jazeera ahead of the Diamond League event in Doha.