After recently returning from an unforgettable trip to Tanzania and Kenya, I’ve found myself reflecting on more than just the incredible wildlife we encountered on safari. The people also left an imprint — particularly the Maasai tribe, whose way of life offers some insights into human movement and performance.
As a sports physical therapist and business owner serving active individuals in both Bethesda and McLean, I’m always observing movement through the lens of biomechanics, environment, and long-term physical resilience. And the Maasai tribe? They’re a living example of how environment and development shape the human body’s capacity for movement.
The Barefoot Reality
The Maasai grow up immersed in motion — running, walking, jumping, and herding cattle amidst unpredictable terrain and wild animals like lions and hyenas. What’s even more fascinating? They do all of this in traditional sandals they make themselves — minimalistic by our standards, offering little support compared to today’s athletic shoes.
Yet despite the lack of external support, they move efficiently and powerfully, as they developed this way from birth. Their feet, ankles, and lower limbs were conditioned over years to tolerate the high forces of running and jumping — essentially barefoot.
What This Means for Us in Bethesda or McLean
In our society, we’re influenced by very different environmental forces. We spend most of our time on concrete and hard surfaces, not grasslands. Most of us wore structured shoes as children, so our feet developed differently from those of the Maasai.
That’s why trends like barefoot running, inspired by books like “Born to Run”, need to be approached thoughtfully. While the intention behind minimal footwear and natural movement is often positive, our bodies may not be ready for that shift without a smart, progressive plan.
At our performance physical therapy clinics in Bethesda and McLean, we help patients understand how to safely incorporate barefoot-style training — but we do so within the context of their unique background, history, and goals. What works for someone raised in rural Kenya might not be the best place to start for someone who’s been training on gym floors or running on paved roads their whole life.
Context Is Everything
Whether it’s about footwear, mobility drills, strength work, or running technique, context matters. What’s optimal for one person may lead to injury in another — especially when their musculoskeletal system hasn’t adapted to a new stimulus.
That’s where expert guidance can make all the difference.
Looking to Train Smarter?
If you’re experimenting with new training strategies, transitioning to minimalist footwear, or just looking for ways to optimize performance while preventing injury, our team at Cohen Health and Performance would love to help.
We specialize in physical therapy for active adults and athletes in both McLean and Bethesda, helping bridge the gap between rehab, performance, and long-term health.
Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and get expert guidance on how to move better, train smarter, and thrive in your own environment.
