Chi Discussion Forum

Hi!

I am new to the forum & just started reading about CHI Running this week. 

I like to run daily, especially since I left the treadmill to run outside.  I have not yet learned all about CHI running so I have suffered some knee pain from running on the pavement but that has subsided.  I am flat-footed, wear orthotics & wear proper runners.

I have tried to change my stride & gait as I observed that I tended to run on my toes.  My calves are very tight, probably from earlier years on high heels.  Anyway, I made a concerted effort to run heel-ball-toe.  Up until I made this change I had some discomfort running but nothing like this:  Tendonitis on the front of my right ankle.

I will be getting the book this week to learn CHI Running.  However, my main question is this:  if one runs slowly (10-11 minutes per mile) and using the CHI method, is it too much to run about 10 miles a day?  This is what I was doing & had no pain, until I tried to change my gait & stride.

I love running & not doing it daily will take away a lot of what it has given me:  feeling calm yet energetic, good sleep, good appetite;  my other sports are enhanced too.

Please advise.

Carole

Yes! Running ten miles a day,even at a 10-11 min./mile pace, even doing ChiRunning. As you’ll see when you get the book, it’s always best to transition gradually when changing from one mode of moving to a new one (ie, changing gait). Running every day does not allow your body to rest between workouts, and even though it might feel good to be exercising regularly, it is much better to take at least one day off each week and do nothing. ChiRunning is body-friendly enough that it will allow you to run every day without injuring yourself, but it is not recommended. This is the short answer. The ChiRunning book will provide a much more indepth answer.
Danny

Thanks, Danny.  I look forward to reading your book. 

It is true that after I took a 2 day break from running & did some walking instead, I was so INTO my run yesterday.  I came back elated! Today I ran again and although I am always happy during & after a run, I must say it was a BIT harder today ... but still ... I just LOVE to run!

I am already practicing the “lean” & I HAVE noticed that my speed has increased.  AUTOMATICALLY it seemed I was moving faster but I didn’t feel like I was working harder. 

Carole