Danny Dreyer

I read the book, and also listened to the audio version (ready by the author), which has a bit of text but mainly focuses around some guided exercises. They deal with the basics such as mindfulness, belly breathing, posture ("stand up straight, young man/lady!"), and avoiding overstriding. Questions remain as to how effective it is to tinker with one's running form, but I found the provided cues useful, and based on my own experience of getting back into running, actively focusing on show more technique can be tremendously useful, especially when it comes to unlearning bad habits.

The "chi" part is mostly hogwash, unless you are into that sort of mystical anatomy. But it mostly doesn't interfere with the more practical aspects of the advice, even if the physiological underpinnings are a bit shaky. Then again, most of the run coaching from the 50's through the 90's was equally based on empirical results rather than sound theory, and ultimately it's results that we're after.

The written version of the book is marred by testimonials more suited to a late night infomercial than a purported "guided practice of self-mastery." Which perhaps is to be expected once visiting the ChiRunning website and seeing the many workshops, memberships, apps, and other items for sale for many hundreds of dollars, making the whole endeavour seem like a sleazy scam. Thankfully, these sections are easily skipped, and of course there is certainly much value in in-person evaluation of form and live coaching sessions.

Towards the end of the book, it morphs into much more conventional territory concerning training and racing. Most surprising to me was the section on nutrition, which was straightforward and based on sound principles, espousing a balanced plant-based diet, allowing for occasional splurges and not demanding the avoidance or inclusion of any particular items.

Overall I was quite impressed. Although I rolled my eyes a couple of times at the "chi" parts, there is more than enough practical advice and inspiration/motivation to get out there and run in a more effortless and enjoyable way. show less

A lot to take in, and the kind of book I think you put into practice as you read it. Chi running is more of an adaptive process than I first imagined, and will take some time and effort to incorporate. I like the idea, though, of having core muscle groups do more of the work so your legs and smaller muscles get to flow along with the momentum. Based on Tai Chi, the zen-like nature of Chi running appeals to me. But...it's gonna take time. Really needed to get the DVD to fully understand it, i show more think, as a book just can't do learning form justice. But I imagine that was their marketing plan all along, as the DVD is plugged often in this book. Chi Running is also supportive of minimalist/barefoot running, so I may learn how to safely run longer distances in my Vibrams relying on this method. show less

I've been running 10-20 miles a week on and off for the last 7 years. In the last 2 years, I've done it a bit more seriously, entering races for the first time, all distances between 5k and 10 miles. In these last couple years I've experienced recurrent injuries in my left leg, starting with my ankle, then my groin, and lately my knee. Physical therapy has had me focusing on strengthening my core each time, but ChiRunning is giving me a new running form to use that core strength and take show more stress off my legs.

I still have not run very far with this form and have only done so on a treadmill. But I've noticed the difference immediately. We'll see how it holds up over the next couple months of training for two longer races (for me) filled with hills.

The beginning of the book is filled with a bit too much hype. I also am skeptical of any program that claims to work for everyone. But this is definitely worth your time if you want to be a more efficient runner and prevent injuries. It's also good for the beginning runner. Build good habits before the bad ones get ingrained!

I recommend the audio book for those who can run in a safe environment while listening. Please don't run in traffic with headphones on! You can't improve your running form when you've been run over by a truck! show less

First, I am not a runner! Recently, I tuned into bits of conversation my peers were having on Chi Running, and my interest was piqued. I'm attracted to the idea of moving the body in ways it was designed to move: effortlessly, without stress, and without injury. And I believe that posture has much to do with not only the body's physical health, but also the mind, the emotions, and the spirit. Dreyer is a natural teacher: instruction is clear, concise, and easy to follow. I've discovered that show more he has done Chi Walking, and I will definitely be seeking it out. show less