Current Running Fads To Try: Chi, Trail and Barefoot
As more and more people join charity walks and runs all over the world, running has grown in popularity. But, that has also introduced a whole new group of people to some of the more common injuries of running: shin splits, lower back pain, plantar fasciitis, and more. In response to all these aches and pains, there are a few different methods of running that have gained popularity recently that purport to reduce injury. Here’s a quick overview of the running methods and what specialized gear (if any) you need.
Trail Running
Trail running is running on lose gravel up and down hills, through puddles, etc. It’s thought to reduce injury by keeping you off the pavement , thereby lowering the impact of each step. Running off of the asphalt can definitely reduce your impact, but if you’re not using trail running shoes, like the New Balance 810 shoes, you might be creating more problems than you solve. Trail running shoes will prevent you from slipping – which is a must, because if you are slipping your balance will be off and you will be prone to twist yourself or trip and fall.
Chi Running
Chi running stays on the sidewalks and asphalt, but advocates for a different stride, where you keep your limbs close in to your torso and use your core muscles to control the rest of your body. Your strides will be much shorter and you’ll want to end up striking with each step in springy part of your midfoot. For this, you are going to want a shoe like the New Balance 801, which strengthens that arch and can help keep you from heel striking. Chi Running can be very helpful, but you probably want to incorporate some core strengthening exercises into your routine to help keep your running on target.
Barefoot Running
Barefoot running is just what it sounds like – running barefoot, so no gear required. The idea here is that you stay up on your toes, and end up running like a child does, on your tip toes. This provides an excellent calf work out, but even more so than the other methods, you will want to work your way into this VERY slowly. Just running around the block on your toes can be the equivalent to doing hundreds of calf raises, so you are likely to be VERY sore for a couple days after your first (and second and maybe third) runs as you build up those calf muscles.
July 05 2010 12:40 pm | Exercises