By Cindy Peterson
Clermont’s “Barefoot Ninja” Returns to American Ninja Warrior
Langdon Dinsdale, better known as the Barefoot Ninja, made his return to the national stage as he took on the course in the latest episode of NBC’s American Ninja Warrior Season 17, which aired Monday night.
The Clermont resident first captivated audiences in Season 16 with his unique barefoot approach and inspiring backstory, was once again in the spotlight—this time, better prepared and more determined than ever.
“I’m back on American Ninja Warrior Season 17!!!” Langdon posted on social media ahead of his televised run. “I’m super grateful to have gotten another opportunity on the big stage!”
As a biomechanics specialist and owner of Soma Health & Performance in Clermont, Langdon works with athletes and individuals recovering from pain. His journey into the ninja world began unexpectedly after taking his kids to a local ninja gym for a class. What started as a fun weekend competition quickly evolved into national-level success, including multiple appearances at the world championships of Ninja Warrior.
Langdon first appeared on American Ninja Warrior in the premiere of Season 16. Despite an impressive debut, he lost his grip on the handlebars in a later obstacle and fell short of advancing. Still, his barefoot run—the first in show history—left a lasting impression with both the audience and fellow ninjas.
“When I went in and competed [in Season 16], I had never taken a ninja class,” he says. “I was just an athletic guy winging it. Since filming, I’ve taken ninja classes and am very excited to go back and compete.”
In the time since his first appearance, Langdon has trained more intentionally, refining his technique and embracing the ninja community. That growth was on display in Monday’s episode, where he advanced through much of the course with greater confidence and control, advancing to Stage 3, the final stage.
Why the name Barefoot Ninja? The nickname comes from his decision to forgo shoes entirely, a lifestyle shift he made more than seven years ago. Once a shoe salesman with a large personal collection, Langdon now lives and trains fully barefoot, citing health benefits and a deeper connection with movement.
“I’ve traveled all over the world barefoot, and I even ran a half marathon barefoot,” he says.
You can stream Langdon’s latest run on American Ninja Warrior via NBC or Peacock.
Originally from the small town of Berryville, Arkansas, Cindy has become a multimedia specialist in journalism, photography, videography, and video editing. She has a B.S. in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and produces Style Magazine's Sports Hub Podcast and the Healthy Living Podcast. She also produces for Beacon College’s Telly Award-winning PBS show, “A World of Difference.” When she isn’t working, Cindy loves traveling the National Parks with her husband , Ryan, and son, David, photographing wildlife.
