If running does little to pique your interest, try ChiRunning, which fuses tai chi with endurance running. Created by master running coach Danny Dreyer, ChiRunning takes the pounding-the-pavement effect on your joints out of the equation so you get a more cathartic and relaxing run.
“I found that when I moved my core as I ran, like I did while practicing tai chi, I was able to run more easily and reduce my leg work,” say Dreyer.
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ChiRunning puts your body into the correct position, which means there’s less impact on your body to reduce joint and knee pain and shin splints. All you have to do is focus on good posture and move in a slight forward fall—like how a child runs—picking up your feet instead of pushing off with your toes. “ChiRunners land closer to their bodies and don’t extend their legs out in front as much, but instead, lengthen their strides rearward. They also do not heel strike, which is like putting the brakes on every stride,” he says.
While you definitely work up a sweat, your muscles aren’t required to do more than they are designed to do, so you won’t feel as tired afterward.
