Most of us just head out the door in our running shoes, racking up the miles until it's time to stop, giving little thought to form. And, many of us get injured; knees, hips, and ankles are especially vulnerable. It is estimated that more than 50 percent of runners in the U.S. stop running at least once each year due to injury. But a Mountain View, California company called ChiRunning combines the inner focus and flow of Tai Chi with the power and energy of running. The technique works to prevent injury by stabilizing core muscles and utilizing a forward-leaning stance. According to the website, www.chirunning.com, the program also claims to increase mental clarity and focus and enhances the joy of running and overall performance and wellbeing. A recent article in the New York Times reported that ChiRunning has increased its sales by 50 percent since its national start in 2004. What does it sell? Mostly running and walking books, tapes, and videos as well as more than 100 instructors trained in the ChiRunning method who teach classes in six countries. None of these things are cheap; the "book combo" of "ChiRunning" and "ChiWalking" costs $27.95. But, if you're a runner with sore knees or other chronic injuries, it might be worth checking out.
Heard of ChiRunning? Now You Have
Posted by Julie M.
Most of us just head out the door in our running shoes, racking up the miles until it's time to stop, giving little thought to form. And, many of us get injured; knees, hips, and ankles are especially vulnerable. It is estimated that more than 50 percent of runners in the U.S. stop running at least once each year due to injury. But a Mountain View, California company called ChiRunning combines the inner focus and flow of Tai Chi with the power and energy of running. The technique works to prevent injury by stabilizing core muscles and utilizing a forward-leaning stance. According to the website, www.chirunning.com, the program also claims to increase mental clarity and focus and enhances the joy of running and overall performance and wellbeing. A recent article in the New York Times reported that ChiRunning has increased its sales by 50 percent since its national start in 2004. What does it sell? Mostly running and walking books, tapes, and videos as well as more than 100 instructors trained in the ChiRunning method who teach classes in six countries. None of these things are cheap; the "book combo" of "ChiRunning" and "ChiWalking" costs $27.95. But, if you're a runner with sore knees or other chronic injuries, it might be worth checking out.