The natural running craze

What is with all the hype about natural running? Over the past year or so I have continually heard more people talking about how they are converting over to natural running. While I do give them props for trying something new, I am not persuaded enough to switch over. Many have tried to convince me that it is better for me than my Asics. They act like it’s the cool new thing and everyone is doing it. That mentality didn’t work for me as a kid and is not working for me now. I need a stronger argument.  

I do understand that for some people this can be a good change because they may not have practiced the best running form before and it was affecting their body in negative ways. Many times poor running form is the leading cause of injury in runners. In my case, I have an efficient and strong form that allows me to avoid putting excess stress on my body when running. 

Next is the issue of support with the natural running shoes. Usually they provide very little or no support. Many of the articles that I have read noted that most injuries are caused by shoes that provide the runner too much support. What is happening is people are running with bad form and the extra support is absorbing the excess force that is exerted due to poor form. As a distance runner, that extra support is what allows me to continue running marathons. There is no way I would ever be able to complete 26.2 miles wearing a pair of natural shoes.

So for all those natural runners out there; I respect your desire to change but you can keep your minimalist shoes. I’ll stick to my trusty old Asics to get me through another successful marathon. Below I attached a funny little clip on natural running. 

Until next time, keep enjoying that mild late summer weather because winter will be here before you know it.