Have you be come curious about barefoot running after reading an article or blog post about it? Have you tried it and decided it's only for the insane? Or maybe you are already dedicated to barefoot running and go out everyday, rain, wind or shine.

Regardless of your experience, if you have even heard about barefoot running then the one book I would recommend you read immediately is "Born to Run" by Christopher McDougal. Find it at your local bookstore or get it from Amazon, either way...

Here are my top 7 reasons to read the barefoot running saga "Born to Run:" Reason #1. Learn the truth about barefoot running.

There are many sources of barefoot running myths and misinformation out there, but "Born to Run" isn't one of them. Not only is the author an actual practitioner of barefoot running himself, but he traveled to the home of the legendary barefoot running tribe called the "Tarahumara" in Mexico, known for their barefoot running treks that cover hundreds of miles and take 2 days or more.(Tarahumara is actually not what they call themselves - you will learn their real name when you read "Born to Run.") Reason #2. The "secret supplement" of Aztec runners.

The Tarahumara still drink an ancient recipe passed down from eh ancient aztecs that allows them to experience heightened energy, strength and endurance while running. This substance was considered more precious than god by the aztecs and you will learn what it is and how to make it for your own barefoot running routine in "Born to Run."

Reason #3. Solid science and body mechanics.

"Born to Run" is not just a personal story or a history of barefoot running (although it is both of those) - but it is also a resource for some solid scientific research on barefoot running, and body mechanics. The author talked with top running researchers and scientists before writing his book, and it shows.

Reason #4. The Tarahumara.

Barefoot running 200 miles at a stretch...drinking corn liquor as a mainstay of their diet...living in a place that is so treacherous it has claimed the lives of many seasoned mountaineers...the Tarahumara are possibly the most fascinating tribe still alive on earth, and you will read every amazing detail about them in "Born to Run."

Reason #5. The author's own barefoot running story.

Christopher Mcdougal's personal saga of how he found barefoot running after being unable to prevent his body from breaking down with multiple injuries caused by shoe running is interesting in itself and will serve as a kind of rubric by which many can compare their own experiences, barefoot running or otherwise.

Reason #6. Practical material you can use for barefoot running.

Aside from the historical significance and pure reading enjoyment, "Born to Run" also includes a lot of practical information and advice that anyone interested in barefoot running can use in their own practice. Personally I found it indispensable reading while training for barefoot running across America (and still do).

Reason #7. Pacing of a mystery novel.

From the opening sentence to the last page, "Born to Run" is many things, but boring is not one of them. You will find yourself sucked into this book about barefoot running the same way you would a great mystery novel - only, everything in "Born to Run" is true. Be sure you have time to read it, or else your family and friends will hate you for not speaking to them while you are engrossed in this book! That's it - seven reasons to go out and get "Born to Run" and read it right now! It also makes a great complement to my own barefoot running course, How To Run Barefoot, which you can read about below.