(Written by Amy Peacock – Chi Running Instructor)
Danny Dreyer, ultra marathoner and Founder of ChiRunning, applied physics, body mechanics and movement principles from T’ai Chi (an ancient Chinese martial art) to create this unique running program. The focuses of ChiRunning are energy efficiency and injury prevention, two things a runner should be focused on with each step they take. Injury prevention and energy efficiency are achieved through body alignment and relaxation.
If you want to prevent injury, you must focus on your form. Good posture and proper body alignment are the foundation of good running form.
Stand up right now and look down at your feet. Are they splayed? Hmm. That might explain some knee and hip issues.
When running are you hunched over or super upright? Do you have a side-to-side (lateral) sway with your hips or arms? Do you have knee pain when you run? Do you ruminate about your job, the kids, competitors, and your to-do list?
Now take a look at your running shoes. Are the heels built up? Are they worn on certain sides? Are your shoes heavy, tight and laces constricting? If you are wearing Vibrams do your calves or toes hurt?
It might be time to make a change. Yep, pull back on the endorphin rush for a moment or two and examine Chi Running. Running does not have to hurt!
Being mindful of your form at any age is a small price to pay if it will enable you to run for years ahead, injury-free. So, fellow runners, please consider using ChiRunning as a tool. Your body will thank you.
Workshop Schedule for September @ Five Forks club:
1 Hour Workshop (Learn to Run Injury-Free) – Sat., March 15, 1:00-2:30. Please sign up and pay at Five Forks or contact me. (430-8810)
Cost: $20/person $30 Non-member (Form your own group of 3 or more – contact Lynette)
Beginner Injury-Free 5K Training Program: (6 sessions for $300, 3 for $165)
Format: 25 min. Chi-Running (Checking form, video taping, practice),
20-25 min. core and ab workout, 10 min. stretching. Provide client a workout
schedule and check it week-to-week.
Contact Lynette @ 864-430-8810 or lynette.k.froehlich@gmail.com for more information.
