As runners look to add some variety to their training, natural running is booming. Find out what natural running means and how natural running shoes have been developed with the new phenomenon in mind.

Running on your midfoot

There are two ways of looking at natural running. In one sense, natural running refers to a running technique where you land on the middle of your foot rather than on your heel.

This is usually associated with faster runners, who tilt their bodies slightly forward and land with their feet directly below – instead of slightly in front of – their body. As a result, the point of initial contact shifts from their heel to the midfoot or forefoot.

This technique is also how some elite athletes run barefoot, relying purely on the lever of the plantar fascia in their feet to absorb the shock of landing.

Some people insist that this is the technique all runners should use, because it is the ‘original’ or a more natural way to run.

But if you’re not used to running barefoot, this technique comes with considerable risk of injury , and it is definitely not recommended for everybody.

That’s why we advocate a more responsible way of natural running that is within reach for all runners.

Learn more about the gait cycle and how you run

Varying your running routine

More generally, natural running refers to a different running experience – one that feels easier and more flexible , with less constrictions on your feet, and with a more direct feel of the ground.

Running in shoes that are lighter, less cushioned and more flexible offers your feet a welcome change.

It gives the muscles and tendons in your feet a workout – there’s less cushioning to absorb the shock sop your feet themselves will take on more of the work.

Strenghtening your feet in this way provides effective injury prevention over the long term.

It’s all about adding variety to your routine. So if you’re used to doing three runs a week, try doing one of them in natural running shoes. You’ll be sure to notice the difference, and the effect it has on your ‘normal’ running.

Discover other ways to vary your running and reduce the risk of injury

A more natural ride

So what exactly are natural running shoes? The short answer is that they aim to allow your feet to move as naturally as possible.

This means natural running shoes are constructed very differently from other running shoes .

Natural running shoes are:

As a result, they offer a more direct and responsive ground feeling – a more natural ride, as runners like to say.

The ASICS 33 collection offers a range of natural running shoes for different runners, depending on your mileage and ground feel preference.