The Barefoot Marathon in Kodagu
I believe movement is medicine and connecting with the earth changes everything. This is my tribute to the land of Kodagu, bringing people together to run, breathe, and find joy in the simple act of moving barefoot.
A few moments from a very special day at the Barefoot Marathon in Kodagu. This event is about more than just running; it's about community, gratitude, and connecting with our roots.
The Barefoot Marathon is a true celebration of our connection with Mother Earth. It's an honor to see our community come together with such joy and energy year after year.
The joy of running barefoot, connecting with the earth and each other. This is what our promotional runs for the Barefoot Marathon are all about, building a tribe of enthusiasts.
Waving the flag at the start line of the Barefoot Marathon. The energy and spirit of the runners is incredibly inspiring and makes this event so special.
Kicking off the Barefoot Marathon with my friend and partner, Milind Soman. Together, we celebrate fitness and our connection to the beautiful land of Kodagu.
Age is just a number when it comes to fitness and fun. Here we are doing pushups with participants at the Barefoot Marathon, proving that everyone can be a part of the movement.
A moment of shared strength and fun at the marathon. It's all about inspiring each other to stay active and connected, no matter your age.
About this collection
The Barefoot Marathon is not just about finishing a distance. It is a zero-waste movement we built in Kodagu to reconnect with the earth. We focus on natural, barefoot running techniques that help you feel grounded, regardless of your pace or experience level.
I started this journey with a simple thought. What happens when we strip away the modern gadgets and run the way we were meant to? The result was a community of runners—from kids to seniors—gathering in Kodagu to celebrate health and the local spirit. We partner with like-minded individuals such as Milind Soman to promote the benefits of barefoot running, which include improved posture, stronger foot stabilizers, and a deeper connection to the surface you run on.
This is a zero-waste event, meaning we respect the land as much as we respect our own bodies. If you are new to this, do not worry. We host regular promo runs in places like Cubbon Park, Bengaluru, where you can experience the sensation of grounding under the guidance of our instructors. It is not about speed. It is about awareness. Whether you are a seasoned marathoner looking for a new challenge or someone who has never run a day in your life, you are welcome here. We believe fitness is for everyone, and the best way to start is by taking off your shoes and feeling the ground beneath you.
Nikki Ponappa
I am Nikki. I found my own strength by listening to my gut and turning back to basics, and now I want to share that with you. Whether we are training on the golf course or running barefoot through the mud in Kodagu, my goal is the same: to help you feel grounded and truly alive.
Let's find your movement
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