Start as you mean to continue

Posted: January 1st, 2009 | Author: Mark | Filed under: Running | Tags: | 3 Comments »

So it’s been a month since I went out for a half-hearted run through the snow (as I’ve been concentrating on resistance work for the last couple of months), so what with it being the new year and the gym being closed, and being scheduled to do some HIIT, I decided I’d best go out for a trundle.

It would also give me the chance to try out the Chi Running techniques I’ve been reading about to sort out my running style from shuffling pensioner to actual athleticism.

So I went out for a spin around Tooting Common, 3.1km all told, in a frightfully slow 26 minutes. The Chi Running techniques, when I remembered to use them, were actually very helpful. I’m sure it’ll take a few more spins to get the hang of it but I did find myself able to run at a reasonable pace (14km/hr at one point – woosh!) without too much extra effort. Lovely!

So here’s to more than one run a month this year.

PS: also tried out some proper stretches and leg drain thing from the Chi Running book, and my legs feel fine. Amazing!

3 Comments on “Start as you mean to continue”

  1. 1 jogblog said at 12:10 pm on January 3rd, 2009:

    “Shuffling pensioner running style”. You’ve seen me run then?

  2. 2 Mitchell Phillips said at 9:06 am on February 9th, 2009:

    Hello Mark, I found your blog via Google, and i wanted to welcome you aboard the life / the world of running. I run a sports injury clinic in Brighton and have just launched a Video Gait Analysis company in Hove, specialising in observing various running techniques, and the injuries that are often associated with distance running. With all running techniques, it is important that it is well suited for the athletes frame / build. As mid / forefoot running seems to be creating a lot of attention at the moment, it is vital to be aware as to whether your frame / foot-type can handle it. Commonly, many runners +85kg do have mild pronation (flat foot), so it’s important to have the correct footware and a suitable strengthening stretching program in place to support any change in running technique, hence the love for my business. Being the sports therapists for the Brighton Brooks 10k and the Sussex Beacon Half Marathon, we organise the treatment / massage tents for both events. Are you considering the Sussex Beacon on the 22nd? If you are, please come and say hello!

    Mitchell Studio57clinic StrideUK.com

  3. 3 Mark said at 9:10 am on February 9th, 2009:

    Hi Mitchell – no, not doing the Sussex Beacon I’m afraid – my next race isn’t until May, but I plan to do the Brooks 10k later this year; that’s a fantastic race!