“Born to Run” might ring a bell as a Bruce Springsteen song. But it’s also a running book — and not just any running book. In the US, the buzz around it has been huge. So huge, in fact, that Christopher McDougall’s “Born to Run” became a true bestseller. At its core, “Born to Run” is a return to the roots of running — back to the idea that running is part of our human instinct.
Contents
A few reasons you’ll want to read “Born to Run”
The book kicks off with doctors telling Christopher McDougall he should quit running because of repeated injuries. A runner with modest PRs, he decides instead to go searching for the Tarahumara tribe in the Copper Canyons of northern Mexico.
This tribe has managed to stay relatively untouched by the outside world — and they’re famous for running incredible distances every day… in sandals (huaraches, as they call them). For them, running is inseparable from tradition, community, and play.
Meeting them isn’t exactly easy: the area is controlled by dangerous drug traffickers. And the author has to track down the mysterious Caballo Blanco — an American living as a recluse in the canyons — before he can even get close to the Tarahumara.
A running book—and the bible of minimalist running
The book is packed with stories from iconic ultra-marathons, legendary middle-distance champions, and unforgettable ultra trail runners. It also makes you question whether many running injuries might be caused by shoes with too much cushioning.
You’ll discover how Homo sapiens evolved the ability to run for very long distances. Over hours, a human can effectively “outrun” an antelope: because the animal can’t regulate heat as efficiently as we can, it eventually collapses from exhaustion.
Humans were made to cover phenomenal distances — often barefoot — thanks to feet built from a complex network of bones. The foot is an engineering masterpiece that doesn’t necessarily need artificial cushioning (at least on softer ground). The title “Born to Run” isn’t a random choice…
An adventure story powered by people you’ll never forget
More than anything, this is a book about adventure and human connection—one that will delight any running enthusiast. Rather than spoil it all, we strongly encourage you to read it.
Without a doubt, Caballo Blanco’s attempt to set up a race between the Tarahumara — arguably the best long-distance runners in the world yet virtually unknown — and a handful of some of the most lovable American ultra-runners will keep you hooked.
To keep it short, here are a few English reviews below to make you want to read it. You’ll understand why it became a true bible for barefoot and minimalist runners across the Atlantic. Enjoy!
Born to Run reviews
« A fascinating and inspiring true adventure story, based on humans pushing themselves to the limits. A brillantly written account of extraordinary entrance… it’s destinated to become a classic. » Ranulph Fiennes
« Hugely entretaining… this is one of the most joyful and engaging books about running to appear for many years. » Irish Times
« Wonderful. It’s funny, insigthful, captivating, and a great and beautiful discovery. The book inspires anyone who seeks to live more fully or to run faster. I just loved this book. » Lynne Cox
« A bible for the barefoot running community. » Ben Fogle, Telegraph