Chi Discussion Forum

hello to all i would like to say this is my first post and im new to chi running. I do have alot of questions well for now ill keep it to just a couple. I am about 5’2 110 lbs new to chi running like i said. Im in ok shape not the best runner i dont do marathons or anything like that but i can say im a better runner than i was before. With that i mean i remember a year ago i couldnt even run a half a mile or even a mile not to say i can run 3 miles. I have a pair of brooks gts adrenaline 13 with dr scholl’s active series.Since im getting back to running i want to do it right and i feel like im not. My first run with chi running i had some soreness on my thigh calves and pain on my archiles. I read somewhere if your achiles is in pain u ran too much on your toes which i admit i did. Yesturday i ran again with chi running form and after i feel some pain on my ankles sorta sprain feeling but not that major to go to the hospital or anything just more like aching actually is just feels when i walk on it. I would assume i landed wrong on both my feet but my calves thigh and alchiles aint sore or anything like that. Im not sure what im doing wrong or right i dont even feel right running or walking today i guess ill give it like 2 or 3 days more before i go running again. I really need some expert help btw my goal is about 3 miles maybe 4. I want to know after running using proper chi form is it normal to feel your abs calves and thigh muscles?  i dont mean pain more like feel like there working. The second day i was feeling more my core than the first. Im obviously doing something wrong if everyone can run pain free but me using this form.Any advice tips info links i will gladly appreciate it.

Hi Jason

Without seeing you run I can only guess a couple of things. One - you were spot on about landing (and staying on your toes) - that can lead to calf and achilles pain. As for the ankle pain, is it on the inside (medial)? The ankle pain can come from landing on your toes, or if you are not set up correctly for a midfoot landing and you’re forcing it. It can also come from overpronation (which I’m guessing is why you are in Adrenalines?).

How do your shoes and inserts feel? Were you advised by the shoe store to that model (stability)? And why the inserts? The reason I ask all this is sometimes you can get into overcorrection and that can cause pain and discomfort itself. If the shoes don’t feel right, take them back. Or experiment with less correction (no inserts) in the shoes.

Most of all - make sure your alignment is good - both postural and directional, meaning no bending at the waist, or leaning back (remember shoulders-hips- ankles in a line) and that the feet are pointing forward, and the arms are not crossing your center line.

If you have an instructor in your area (find one here - http://www.chirunning.com/learn-it/find-an-instructor- set up a time with them to have them check all this out and get you on a path to running pain free.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Laura Houston
Certified Chi Running and Chi Walking Instructor
Seattle WA