The Ground Beneath Our Feet: Ivan Hrastovec and the Philosophy of Barefoot Running

In a world increasingly dominated by innovation and complexity, some seek simplicity—not as a regression, but as a means of rediscovering authenticity. For Ivan Hrastovec, barefoot running is not just a sport but a philosophy, a dialogue between body and earth, and a form of self-expression. His story, shaped by personal challenges and triumphs, offers profound lessons about resilience, mindfulness, and the art of living with less.

From Childhood Play to Lifelong Philosophy

Ivan's connection to barefoot running began in the most unassuming way—through play. As children, he and his brother would challenge each other to endure running barefoot over gravel paths near their home. “It wasn’t training; it was just fun,” Ivan recalls. “We’d see who could run the furthest before giving up.” These seemingly trivial moments planted the seeds of a philosophy that would later define his life.

Yet, like many, Ivan drifted away from these roots as he grew older. He adopted the conventional tools of the modern runner: cushioned shoes, sports watches, and training plans. “For years, I thought that to run better, you needed more—better shoes, more data, more structure. But something always felt...off,” he says. This subtle dissatisfaction lingered, until a pivotal moment prompted a return to his barefoot beginnings.

The Transition Back: Rediscovering Barefoot Running

The decision to run barefoot again was not a nostalgic one but a conscious experiment. “I wanted to feel connected to the ground,” Ivan explains. “Shoes isolate you from the very thing you’re moving on. They’re like a wall between you and the earth.”

Initially, the transition was far from smooth. Ivan admits to making several mistakes, driven by enthusiasm rather than understanding. “I took off my shoes and thought I could run the same way as before. My feet weren’t ready, and neither was my mindset. I ended up with blisters, bruises, and frustration.”

These early challenges forced Ivan to rethink his approach. He started small: running on soft grass, then progressing to compacted dirt and eventually rougher terrains. Over time, his feet adapted, growing stronger and more resilient. “Barefoot running is a lesson in humility,” Ivan reflects. “You can’t rush it. Your body sets the pace, and you have to listen.”

The Barefoot Experience: Feeling Every Step

For Ivan, the essence of barefoot running lies in the sensory connection it fosters. “When you run barefoot, every step matters,” he says. “You feel the texture of the ground, the temperature, the incline. It’s an ongoing conversation with the environment.”

This heightened awareness transforms running from a mechanical act into an immersive experience. “You can’t go on autopilot. Every step requires attention. You have to be fully present, or you’ll pay the price.” Ivan describes this state as both challenging and meditative. “There’s a rhythm, but it’s not dictated by a watch or a metronome. It’s the rhythm of your breath, your heartbeat, and the ground beneath you.”

Pain as a Teacher: Embracing Discomfort

Pain is an unavoidable part of barefoot running, but Ivan doesn’t view it as a deterrent. “Pain isn’t something to fear—it’s something to understand,” he says. Every blister and ache tells a story, offering feedback on technique, posture, or surface.

Ivan recalls a defining moment during an ultramarathon in the rugged terrain of Snowdonia. Around the 70th mile, he stepped on a jagged stone, sending a sharp pain through his foot. “For a second, I thought I was done. But then I realized the pain was temporary. I adjusted my stride, found a way to keep moving, and eventually the discomfort faded into the background.”

This mindset—of acknowledging pain without letting it dominate—has become a cornerstone of Ivan’s approach. “Pain is a part of life. The question is not how to avoid it, but how to coexist with it.”

Barefoot Ultramarathons: Pushing Limits

Running ultramarathons barefoot presents unique challenges that extend beyond the physical. The unpredictability of the terrain, the sheer distance, and the mental strain create a test of resilience unlike any other. Ivan recounts moments of doubt during long races, when the temptation to quit felt overwhelming.

“You hear two voices in those moments,” he explains. “One says, ‘Stop. You’ve done enough.’ The other says, ‘Keep going. You’re stronger than this.’ Barefoot running sharpens that dialogue. It forces you to confront yourself in ways you might avoid otherwise.”

One of Ivan’s most remarkable achievements was completing a 100-mile race barefoot, navigating through mud, gravel, and scorching asphalt. “People thought I was crazy,” he admits. “But for me, it wasn’t about proving anything to anyone. It was about proving something to myself.”

Criticism and Misconceptions

Ivan’s approach has not been without its critics. Some view barefoot running as reckless, citing the risk of injury or the impracticality of navigating modern terrains. Ivan responds to these concerns with measured clarity.

“Barefoot running isn’t about rejecting shoes—it’s about making a choice,” he explains. “I always carry shoes in my pack for emergencies, and I respect race rules. But I believe in running the way that feels most natural to me.”

He acknowledges that barefoot running is not for everyone. “It’s not a magic solution. It’s a tool, and like any tool, it requires skill and understanding to use effectively.”

Philosophy Beyond Running

For Ivan, barefoot running is more than a sport—it’s a metaphor for life. “Running without shoes is about stripping away the unnecessary. It’s about reconnecting with what’s essential,” he says.

This philosophy has influenced other areas of his life. “I’ve learned to approach challenges with the same mindset: patience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace discomfort. Whether it’s a personal setback or a professional challenge, the principles are the same.”

Ivan believes that modern life, with all its conveniences, has distanced us from our natural instincts. “We’ve become too comfortable. Barefoot running is a way to remind ourselves of what we’re capable of, without all the layers of protection.”

Reflections: Lessons from Ivan’s Journey

Ivan Hrastovec’s story is not just about running; it’s about resilience, authenticity, and the human spirit. His journey offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking to challenge themselves:

1. Start Small, Build Slowly: The transition to barefoot running—and any meaningful change—requires patience and a willingness to start from scratch. Ivan’s experience underscores the importance of respecting the process.
2. Embrace Discomfort as Growth: Pain and difficulty are not barriers but opportunities for growth. Ivan’s mindset reframes discomfort as a teacher rather than an enemy.
3. Listen to Your Body: Barefoot running demands constant attention to physical feedback, fostering a deeper connection to one’s body and environment.
4. Strip Away the Unnecessary: Whether in running or life, simplicity often leads to clarity. Ivan’s minimalist approach serves as a reminder to focus on what truly matters.

A Broader Perspective: The Search for Authenticity

In a society that often equates progress with accumulation, Ivan’s journey challenges us to consider what we might gain by letting go. His return to barefoot running is not a rejection of modernity but a quest for balance—a way to integrate the best of the old and the new.

Barefoot running, with all its challenges and rewards, mirrors the human experience: full of discomfort, discovery, and ultimately, growth. Ivan’s story invites us to reconnect with the ground beneath our feet, both literally and metaphorically.

As we navigate our own paths—whether in running, work, or relationships—we can draw inspiration from Ivan’s journey. Sometimes, the way forward is not to add more, but to embrace less. In doing so, we might rediscover not only the joy of running, but the joy of being fully alive.

Discover More About Ivan Hrastovec

For those who wish to dive deeper into Ivan Hrastovec's journey and philosophy, the full interview is available on [YouTube](INSERT LINK HERE). In the hour-long conversation, Ivan shares his experiences in unparalleled depth, offering raw insights into his mindset, training strategies, and the transformative power of barefoot running.

About Ivan Hrastovec

Ivan Hrastovec is a celebrated figure in the world of ultrarunning and barefoot endurance sports. Known for his minimalist approach, Ivan has completed some of the most grueling ultramarathons barefoot, including a 100-mile race through rugged terrain and several high-profile European ultratrail events. He is a passionate advocate for reconnecting with nature through running and often challenges conventional wisdom around performance gear and training methodologies. Ivan’s philosophy extends beyond running, emphasizing the importance of resilience, simplicity, and a deep connection to one’s environment.

Beyond his accomplishments in running, Ivan remains a thoughtful voice in the endurance community, inspiring runners to rethink their approach to the sport. His journey from childhood play to becoming a barefoot ultramarathoner reflects a lifelong commitment to self-discovery and growth.

Further Reading and Exploration

For those inspired by Ivan Hrastovec’s philosophy, I have written a series of five articles on barefoot running, covering topics such as transitioning safely, the science behind barefoot biomechanics, and the mental aspects of minimalist running. These articles are designed to guide runners of all levels, from beginners to seasoned ultramarathoners, in exploring the barefoot journey. Find them here: [INSERT LINKS TO YOUR FIVE ARTICLES].

Five Essential Books on Barefoot Running

To deepen your understanding of barefoot running and the philosophies that underpin it, consider these highly regarded books:

1. Born to Run by Christopher McDougall
   A seminal work that introduced barefoot running to the mainstream, blending storytelling with science and inspiring countless runners worldwide. [Link to Amazon](INSERT LINK)
2. The Barefoot Running Book: A Practical Guide to the Art and Science of Barefoot and Minimalist Shoe Running by Jason Robillard
   A practical guide filled with tips and techniques for transitioning to barefoot running. [Link to Amazon](INSERT LINK)
3. Barefoot Ken Bob’s Barefoot Running Step by Step by Ken Bob Saxton
   A comprehensive manual by one of the pioneers of the modern barefoot movement. [Link to Amazon](INSERT LINK)
4. Running with the Mind of Meditation by Sakyong Mipham
   A fusion of mindfulness and running philosophy that complements the barefoot approach. [Link to Amazon](INSERT LINK)
5. The Art of Running Free by Shane Benzie
   Explores the biomechanics of running efficiently, including techniques applicable to barefoot running. [Link to Amazon](INSERT LINK)