Global Ecovillage Network/Solution Library/Minimalist shoes

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health, waste Humans have an amazing capability to run barefoot, and as modern-age people we can approximate barefoot running with minimalist shoes. Of course- making your own is best!

In his book 'Born to Run', Christopher McDougall discovers that unlike the common myth that humans are physically inferior to other land animals, humans are actually the species that is capable of running the longest distances on the planet! He also came to the conclusion that we humans don't actually need shoes to keep up from harm

• we can run barefoot. He spent time researching indigenous tribes in the hills of mexico, and found that not only could they run unbelievable distances barefoot (men, women, children and elders alike!), but also that they had virtually no 'sports-injuries', where as modern 'professional' runners always carry some kind of injury or injuries. The explanations he gives for this uncanny fact, is that: a. The tribal people run barefoot or with a minimalist running sandal called 'Huarache' b. Their running style is different to ours
• they don't begin each step by stepping on their heel, but by stepping on the front part of their foot! However, since most of us haven't grown up in a tribe in the midst of nature, and we are not used to running barefoot, haven't practiced it before, plus we have different conditions for running
• we can use minimalist shoes, which can approximate barefoot running. There are several kids of minimalist shoes out there to purchase, and of course- making your own is best! (see manuals below)

• Integral Design
  • Contextualised Design
• Social
  • Health & Healing
• Ecology
  • Renewable Energy & Transport
• Economy
  • Sharing & Collaboration

• http://www.bayadaim.org.il/7N4
• http://www.instructables.com/id/Upcycled-Minimalist-Running-Huaraches-or-Lifestyle/?ALLSTEPS
• http://www.instructables.com/id/Minimalist-Running-Sandals-Huaraches/
• http://www.chrismcdougall.com/