Meaning: Zola Budd, a South African-born British middle-distance and long-distance runner, made this statement in reference to her experience with running barefoot. This quote encapsulates her decision to continue running without shoes, a practice for which she became well-known and even controversial in the world of athletics.

Budd's preference for running barefoot was not merely a matter of personal comfort, though that was certainly a factor. It also represented a deeper connection to the act of running itself. By eschewing the traditional running shoe, she felt more in tune with the surface on which she ran, allowing her to feel the track beneath her feet and thereby enhancing her awareness of her surroundings.

Barefoot running has been a topic of interest and debate in the running community for many years. Proponents of barefoot running argue that it can lead to a more natural and efficient running gait, as well as a reduced risk of certain types of injuries. They often point to the human body's evolutionary history, suggesting that our ancestors ran without the support of modern footwear and that the human foot is well-adapted to this mode of locomotion.

Conversely, critics of barefoot running raise concerns about the potential for increased risk of injury, particularly for those unaccustomed to running without shoes. They argue that modern running shoes are designed to provide cushioning and support, thereby reducing the impact forces on the body and decreasing the risk of common running-related injuries such as plantar fasciitis and stress fractures.

Budd's experience with barefoot running provides an intriguing perspective on this ongoing debate. As an elite athlete, her decision to run barefoot was not merely a casual experiment, but a deliberate choice based on her own physical sensations and performance. Her success in international competitions, including setting world records, demonstrated that barefoot running could be a viable and effective approach for some individuals.

It's worth noting that Budd's embrace of barefoot running was not without controversy. In the 1980s, her rivalry with American runner Mary Decker at the 1984 Olympics became one of the most memorable moments in the history of track and field. Budd's barefoot style clashed with the traditional expectations of the sport, and the collision between the two runners during the race led to a highly publicized and emotionally charged incident.

In the years since, the interest in barefoot running has continued to grow, and research on the topic has expanded as well. Studies have sought to investigate the biomechanical differences between barefoot and shod running, as well as the potential benefits and risks associated with each approach. This body of research has contributed to a more nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in the debate over barefoot running.

For those considering trying barefoot running, it's important to approach the transition with caution and patience. Gradually introducing barefoot running into a training regimen, while paying close attention to form and surface conditions, can help reduce the risk of injury and allow the body to adapt to the new demands placed on it.

In conclusion, Zola Budd's decision to run barefoot was a deeply personal one, rooted in her own experience and perceptions of comfort and connection to the act of running. Her example has contributed to a broader conversation about the potential benefits and risks of barefoot running, and her success on the track serves as a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to running. Whether one chooses to run in traditional shoes or without them, the key is to listen to one's body and find a running style that aligns with individual needs and preferences.