5 Unusual Running Traditions From Around the Globe

Running traditions are as diverse as the cultures they come from. Some are based on ancient rituals, while others are born out of friendly competition or daring challenges.

From the world’s oldest ultramarathon in South Africa to the thrilling challenge of running with bulls in Spain, let’s explore the most extraordinary running traditions worldwide.

1. Rarájipari—The Tarahumara Marathon with a Ball (Mеxico)

Imagine running 150 miles (240 km) across rugged terrain—nonstop—while kicking a wooden ball the entire way.

For the nomadic tribe known as Tarahumara, or Rarámuri as they call themselves, running is a way of life. One of their traditional races is Rarájipari. In this team endurance event, skilled men throw a wooden ball while covering difficult ground. They can run up to 150 miles (240 km).

How the race works

• The race can last a full day or longer, continuing non-stop through the day and night.
• Before shamans used bone powder to cast spells and bring luck on their side for the game.
• Runners drink tesguino, a traditional corn beer, which they believe gives them strength.
• Women take part in a race called Dovérami. In this event, they toss vine loops instead of kicking a ball while running.

Running for this tribe is also part of their spirituality. In preparation for races, men never interact with women because they believe this would aid in saving energy.

These races are an integral part of the culture. They may stretch the body’s limits, but they also strengthen the community.

Can anyone join? 

No—Rarájipari is only for the Tarahumara people and remains deeply sacred to their culture. However, outsiders can observe and learn about their running traditions.

While this ceremonial race is exclusive to their community, the Tarahumara have competed in ultramarathons worldwide, amazing others with their legendary endurance.

2. Kaihōgyō—The 1,000-day Marathon (Japan)

A 1,000-day marathon, sleepless nights, and a final trial of seven-and-a-half days without food or water—only the most disciplined monks can endure this sacred path to enlightenment.

The word Kaihōgō roughly translates to “Long Journey” and the monks at Enryaku-ji temple have observed these practices since 1310. This marathon is a sacred ritual aimed at achieving spiritual enlightenment.

Buddhist monks from Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei in Japan face a tough challenge. As a part of spiritual practice, one must complete at least 100 days of kaihōgyō. Many priests serve at the temple, but only a few have completed the grueling 1,000-day practice. It remains a rare and highly specialized pursuit.

How Kaihōgyō works

• 100 days a year, monks walk 30-40 km (19-25 miles) each night. Along the way, monks stop for prayers at sacred sites.
• Over seven years, monks complete 1,000 marathons, covering nearly 40,000 km—equivalent to Earth’s circumference.
• On the 700th day, they face the most extreme trial: Dōiri, a seven-and-a-half-day fast with no food, water, or sleep.
• Those who succeed become revered as “Saintly Masters” and are considered living legends.

Completing Kaihōgyō is not only physically, but also mentally and emotionally demanding. With every step, the monk is enlightened further. This tradition is not exactly about running, but about tremendous endurance. 

Can anyone join?

No—Kaihōgyō is an exclusive practice reserved for Tendai Buddhist monks. However, visitors can hike parts of Mount Hiei and witness the spiritual devotion of the monks who take on this extraordinary challenge.

3. Encierro—Running with the Bulls (Spain)

Running for your life through narrow streets while six massive fighting bulls charge behind you at full speed—one wrong step, and you’re trampled or gored.

The Spanish city of Pamplona celebrates the San Fermín festival annually in July. This is a week-long celebration that includes dancing, drinking, parades, and… running from the bulls, or encierro. Among other festivals around the world, this event is famous because of the danger associated with it.

How the bull run works

• At 8:00 AM, they fire a rocket to signal the start. The authorities release six fighting bulls into the city streets.
• Runners must finish an 875-meter course. It winds through narrow cobbled streets and ends at the bullring.
• Bulls can reach speeds of 35 km/h (22 mph), making it nearly impossible for runners to outrun them.
• In the last century, 15 people have died and many more have been injured.

This world-renowned tradition dates back to the 16th century. It was popularized further by Ernest Hemingway’s 1926 novel, “The Sun Also Rises.”

Encierro is one of the most extreme and thrilling running traditions in the world. People find it controversial, especially regarding how they treat bulls.

Can anyone join?

Yes—anyone over 18 can participate. Runners must follow strict rules, including no distractions, no alcohol, and no stopping mid-run. However, only the bravest dare to face the bulls in this high-risk, high-adrenaline tradition.

4. Man vs. Horse—The Ultimate Endurance Marathon (Wales)

Can a human outrun a horse over long distances? What started as a pub debate turned into one of the most unique endurance races in the world.

The Man vs. Horse Marathon is a one-of-a-kind challenge where runners test their endurance against horseback riders on a 22-mile (35 km) course. The race has been held annually in Wales since 1980.

The idea for the marathon came about completely by chance. Gordon Green, the owner of a local pub in Wales, overheard a debate between two patrons. One argued that a human could match a horse over a long distance. After a lively discussion, Green decided to put the theory to the test by organizing the first race.

This led to the creation of the Man vs. Horse Marathon, which has since become an annual tradition in Llanwrtyd Wells.

How the race works

• The race begins with a tough climb, featuring deep mud, river crossings, and rugged terrain.
• Runners start 15 minutes before the horses for safety reasons.
• Horses must pass a veterinary check halfway through, giving runners an opportunity to gain an edge.

In 2004, runner Hugh Lobb became the first human to outrun all the horses, winning £25,000. 

This marathon is more than a race. It tests resilience, stamina, and determination. It shows that people can push their limits and compete with nature.

Can anyone join?

Yes—the race is open to all runners, but it requires exceptional endurance and mental toughness.

5. Comrades Marathon—The Most Iconic Ultra Race (South Africa)

This is the ultimate battle against time, pain, and exhaustion—90 kilometers and a strict 12-hour time limit.

The Comrades Marathon is a unique running event with historical significance. It is the oldest and biggest ultramarathon in the world, held every year in South Africa since 1921. 

The race began to honor World War I soldiers. Its motto, “The Spirit of Comradeship and Perseverance,” represents determination, friendship, and resilience.

How the race works

This legendary ultramarathon covers 90 kilometers (56 miles) and alternates directions each year:

• Up Run—from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, featuring brutal elevation gains.
• Down Run—the reverse route, which is just as punishing on the legs and joints as the original path.
• The last runners to finish within the time limit get the Vic Clapham bronze medal.
• At exactly 12 hours, race officials close the finish line, meaning even a one-second delay results in disqualification.

This ultramarathon stands out as one of the greatest running traditions in the world. Due to its history and status, the Comrades Marathon is a bucket list race along with the Marathon Majors.

Can anyone join?

Yes—the race is open to all runners, but participants must qualify through official marathon times. Completing Comrades requires intense preparation, mental fortitude, and the ability to withstand extreme physical exhaustion.

Running traditions worldwide are diverse and fascinating. They range from spiritual endurance rituals to high-adrenaline races. Some date back centuries, while others are newer but just as extreme. These traditions show how strong human endurance can be. They highlight cultural identity and how running connects people.

By Lena Sage

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