Backchat There is more than one way to skin a cat t’s a sad fact of the human condition that we will not accept that there is more than one way to skin a cat. Look at martial arts: throughout my years in the martial arts world I have consistently been asked - and on some occasions challenged - to come up with the ultimate art style. The form that will destroy all others. While this is a great conversation piece over a pint or three, analyzing strategies and moves, the truth of the matter is that all arts have their pros and cons – one strength being another’s weakness, much like the basic premise of the game Rock, Paper, Scissors. However, with martial arts, it is the individual practitioner that gives the art substance with their ability, understanding and skills, not merely the techniques of a particular art style. To some this is not acceptable. They have been led to believe by the modern society that there is always the ‘ultimate’, be it a martial art, car, football team or even religion (let’s not go there!), but this is all subjective. The’ ultimate’ art form is probably the one you follow and have faith in, that gives you fulfilment and enjoyment. And it’s different for everyone. Therefore, the martial art styles I do now are a reflection of my years of experimenting with multiple systems, which has allowed me to draw on their varied viewpoints and belief
structures, giving me a more rounded appreciation of techniques and movement. Hopefully, this has made me a better martial artist, knowing how to emphasize my strengths and mask my weaknesses. This is the same for all sports and movement related disciplines, even running. We, as runners, are always searching for the quick fix, whether it’s wearing the latest running shoes (just look at the shoe companies marketing strategies) or searching for the perfect form that will allow us to run endless miles at top speed with no resulting injuries. But this is not possible. We are all very different, unique in fact, from shape and size to internal bodily makeup and mental attitude. To think there is only one way to run is slightly short-sighted. Instead, think of running form as a collection of theories from both the scientific world and anecdotal tales. There is no singular authority on running, but a collection of individuals with their own knowledge base, experience and take on the subject, all offering valuable advice.
basics, resulting in varying techniques and processes. For example, should one run upright or lean forwards and if so, from where should one lean - and how much? Consider any good sportsman: throughout their careers you will be able to see their form change from the influences of different coaches and their experience gained. No world champion was born a champion but instead was created – moulded if you like. We have still so much more to learn about the human body its functions and movements (one of the reasons I have devoted my adult life to it) and to believe that in such a small period of time we have mastered it only serves to do it and ourselves an injustice. The true joy in any sport is the pursuit of excellence through ever changing discoveries. It’s not our end destination that truly matters but our journey there. Be barefoot and enjoy the sensation of the path beneath your feet – it’s ever changing!
While running is basically just placing one foot in front of one another at speed with both feet being off the floor at the same time within a given stride, the subject of running is too diverse, with differentiating parts layered on top of the David Robinson (co-founder of Barefoot Running UK)
Barefoot Running Magazine
Autumn 2012
Page 75