In the running community, the emphasis on proper technique is everywhere. Trainers and coaches stress the importance of running form, and healthcare professionals will often talk about the biomechanics of running, and how it relates to injury. Runners ranging from professionals to weekend warriors can focus on their technique, hoping to become the most efficient runner possible, as well as remain injury-free. Chi Running, a philosophy and technique developed by long time running advocate Danny Dreyer, is no exception to the emphasis on proper form.
In April of 2004, Dreyer release Chi Running: A Revolutionary Approach to Effortless, Injury-Free Running. The book caught on in the running community quickly, and was followed by Chi Walking: Five Mindful Steps to Lifelong Health and Energy in 2006. In Chi Running, emphasis is placed on a midfoot strike during the running cycle as opposed to a heel strike. While the vast majority of runners land on their heels, this can often cause a variety of running injuries, such as iliotibial band syndrome, patellofemoral pain syndrom and even shin splints.
According to the Chi Running website, the philosophy behind Chi Running combines the inner focus and flow of Tai Chi with the power and energy of running. The Chi Running book claims to be the definitive book on running technique, and the Chi Walking book can help apply the same ideas to fitness walking. In an era of increased health problems due to obesity and preventable disease, any book that encourages people to take care of themselves is welcome. Chi Running appears to be a holistic approach to running, helping to focus the mind and entire body on the activity, rather than just simply moving your legs as fast as humanly possible.
The term Chi (pronounced Chee) comes from an ancient Chinese philosophy. The Chi is what unites the mind, body, and spirit. In the Eastern philosophy, Chi is stronger than muscle, and it serves to give energy through the body. At the core of Chi Running is the application of this philosophy. A focused mind, body, and spirit will help the runner become more efficient; less affected by injury, and will make running a more enjoyable experience.
Balance training is a key aspect of Chi Running. With the proper balance of the body, the proper biomechanics of running can be attained. This short YouTube video demonstrates the basics of Chi Running, as demonstrated by a certified Chi Running instructor.
Chi Running is certainly a unique approach to a very common form of exercise, and may help some people with their running form and style. To learn more about Chi Running, check out the website ChiRunning.com.
101 6TH St. NW.
Winter Haven, Fl. 33881
863-299-4551
http://www.FLFootandAnkle.com
1 comment:
Tatiana,
Thank you very much for your post about ChiRunning. Two points to note:
- The first edition 2004 ChiRunning Book was so successful that a 2009 updated edition was just released this past June. It has 64 more pages of information and all the latest information. See the 2009 version here: http://bit.ly/HhOmn
- The picture you have at the top of your post represents a different running form. A more detailed ChiRunning description and diagrams can be found on the ChiRunning website or at this blog: http://blog.echifitness.com
Thanks again for your post.
In good health,
David.
Post a Comment