Cultural variation in running techniques

NewsBot · Apr 21, 2022

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Cultural variation in running techniques among non-industrial societies
Ian J. Wallace et al
Evolutionary Human Sciences.

Research among non-industrial societies suggests that body kinematics adopted during running
vary between groups according to the cultural importance of running. Among groups in which
running is common and an important part of cultural identity, runners tend to adopt what exercise
scientists and coaches consider to be good technique for avoiding injury and maximizing
performance. In contrast, among groups in which running is not particularly culturally important,
people tend to adopt suboptimal technique. This paper begins by describing key elements of
good running technique, including landing with a forefoot or midfoot strike pattern and leg
oriented roughly vertically. Next, we review evidence from non-industrial societies that cultural
attitudes about running associate with variation in running techniques. Then, we present new
data from Tsimane forager-horticulturalists in Bolivia. Our findings suggest that running is
neither a common activity among the Tsimane nor is it considered an important part of cultural
identity. We also demonstrate that when Tsimane do run, they tend to use suboptimal technique,
specifically landing with a rearfoot strike pattern and leg protracted ahead of the knee (called
overstriding). Finally, we discuss processes by which culture might influence variation in
running techniques among non-industrial societies, including self-optimization and social
learning.
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NewsBot · Apr 21, 2022

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