When I first picked up a ChiRunning Book about three and a half years ago – injured, frustrated, confused; I first realized my running philosophy was a bit off and then I realized my running technique was a bit off also.

On the surface, ChiRunning is about adjusting running technique to improve efficiency and prevent injury.  Underneath, ChiRunning in rooted in simple principles of nature, actually laws of nature, that if applied can dramatically change your running experience.

The first three chapters of the ChiRunning Book are all about these principles. It is not until Chapter Four that the elements of the technique are presented. Looking back, the first three chapters were critical to my understanding and all the incremental progress that has followed. I am grateful that patience allowed the process of learning to unfold as it did.

[The same is true for the ChiWalking Book with the first three chapters all about principles and Chapter Four begins the technique.]

Recently the following quote came across my desk. I think it sums it up quite nicely.

The principle without the technique is useless, the technique without the principle is dangerous.
— George Ohsawa

When someone asks about ChiRunning, I am sure to introduce the principles first, then the benefits and then finally elements of the technique. The principle provides the ‘why’ that can motivate the ‘how’. ChiRunning is about changing a habit to improve the quality of your running experience. Sometimes our existing habits just happen slowly over time; as if we fall into them with subtle life influences.

Which leads me to another great quote: “If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything” which is attributed to many on the internet. Consider that when you do stand for something, it is almost always based on a principle by which you live.

So, happy reading and don’t forget to embrace the ‘why’ so when you stand and move in a new direction you have the support of simple principles of nature that apply to us all.

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David Stretanski is a holistic health, fitness and wellness coach and Certified ChiRunning®/ChiWalking® Instructor. For more information on David, please see his About Me, Contact page or his website at http://www.eChiFitness.com.

ChiRunning® and ChiWalking® are registered trademarks of ChiLiving, Inc.

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