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My 500-Mile Journey Through Running Cultures Around the Globe

Isaiah Price

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Published in Run The World: My 3 500 Mile Journey Through Running Cultures Around The Globe

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Running is a universal activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. But did you know that the way we run, train, and compete can vary greatly from one culture to another?

In this article, I'll share my experiences from a recent 500-mile journey through running cultures around the globe. I'll explore the different ways that people run in countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, Japan, and the United States. I'll also discuss the training methods, racing strategies, and cultural traditions that shape the running experience in each of these countries.

Run the World: My 3,500-Mile Journey Through Running Cultures Around the Globe

by Becky Wade

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9572 KB
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Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	277 pages

Kenya: The Birthplace of Running Champions

Kenya is a country with a rich running tradition. Some of the world's greatest marathoners and distance runners have come from this East African nation. So it's no surprise that I was excited to experience the running culture in Kenya firsthand.

I arrived in Iten, a small town in the Rift Valley that is known as the "home of champions." I quickly noticed that running is a way of life here. People of all ages can be seen running along the roads, trails, and even through the fields.

I had the opportunity to train with some of the local runners, and I was amazed by their speed, endurance, and natural talent. I also learned about the unique training methods that Kenyan runners use, such as high-altitude training and running barefoot.

One of the most memorable experiences I had in Kenya was running a race called the Iten Half Marathon. The race was held on a dirt road, and the course was incredibly challenging. But the atmosphere was electric, and I was inspired by the passion and determination of the Kenyan runners.

Ethiopia: The Land of Distance Running

Ethiopia is another country with a strong running tradition. In fact, Ethiopia has produced more Olympic marathon medalists than any other country in the world.

I traveled to Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, to learn more about the running culture there. I visited the Ethiopian Athletics Federation, where I met with some of the country's top runners. I also had the opportunity to run with a group of Ethiopian runners, and I was once again impressed by their speed and endurance.

One of the things that I found most interesting about the running culture in Ethiopia is the emphasis on distance running. Ethiopian runners typically train for marathons and other long-distance races. They believe that distance running is the best way to develop their endurance and speed.

I also learned about the unique training methods that Ethiopian runners use. These methods include running at high altitudes, ng long runs on dirt roads, and eating a traditional Ethiopian diet.

Japan: The Home of the Marathon

Japan is a country with a long and storied history of running. The Tokyo Marathon is one of the most prestigious marathons in the world, and Japan has produced some of the world's best marathoners.

I traveled to Tokyo to experience the running culture in Japan firsthand. I visited the Tokyo Marathon Expo, where I was amazed by the size and scale of the event. I also had the opportunity to run with a group of Japanese runners, and I was impressed by their discipline and dedication.

One of the things that I found most interesting about the running culture in Japan is the emphasis on group running. Japanese runners often train and race in groups, and they believe that this helps them to stay motivated and accountable.

I also learned about the unique training methods that Japanese runners use. These methods include ng long runs on soft surfaces, such as sand and grass, and eating a traditional Japanese diet.

United States: The Melting Pot of Running

The United States is a country with a diverse running culture. People from all over the world have come to the United States to pursue their running dreams.

I traveled to New York City to experience the running culture in the United States firsthand. I visited the New York City Marathon Expo, where I was once again amazed by the size and scale of the event. I also had the opportunity to run with a group of American runners, and I was impressed by their passion and determination.

One of the things that I found most interesting about the running culture in the United States is the emphasis on individual achievement. American runners typically train and race on their own, and they believe that this is the best way to reach their full potential.

I also learned about the unique training methods that American runners use. These methods include using advanced technology, such as GPS watches and heart rate monitors, and eating a diet that is high in protein and carbohydrates.

My 500-mile journey through running cultures around the globe was an incredible experience. I learned about different ways to run, train, and compete. I also gained a new appreciation for the diversity of the running world.

Running is a truly global sport. It can be enjoyed by people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. And no matter where you run, you're sure to find a community of people who share your passion for the sport.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start running!

Run the World: My 3,500-Mile Journey Through Running Cultures Around the Globe

by Becky Wade

4.6 out of 5