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For instance, East Africans were once thought to have a higher percentage of slow twitch muscle fibres, which helps to sustain certain speeds for longer periods of time. However, subsequent researches showed that East Africans possess a very high per- centage of fast twitch muscle fibres, which fatigue faster and are better equipped for explosive, high force, short duration activities. But theirs is said to contain highly oxi- dative characteristics, making the athlete fit for both slow and fast races.


East Africans’ slim shape, lighter feet and ankles demand lesser energy from runners, according to experts. Their large lung capacity, narrow hips, strong nuchal ligament and superior gait, contribute to abundant pace and stamina, but these characteristics also exist in other races that do not excel in long distance races.


Then what is really their secret? Environment


Environmental factors have been debated over and again as the chief secret of the East African long running phenomenon.


However, not every part of these regions are naturally tailored to suit aspiring runners. Research shows that the majority of these athletes come from three mountainous dis- tricts beside the Rift Valley of


Nandi in Kenya - the most successful district - and Arsi and Shewa in Ethiopia.


These districts are of high altitude and people from there are often referred to as “Altitude natives”. Scientists explain that long-term exposure and training in such an environment may likely increase the red blood cell and haemoglobin, which are the


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