A simple yet effective training program for distance runners

After a fair few years off from running, last year I entered the regional half marathon fun run. I was prompted to do so by a buddy and wound up running it for the charity which employs him. This meant I required a training method to ensure I was fit and prepared to run on the day. I ended up getting the ChiRunning book by Danny Dreyer.

The whole concept of the book is that anyone, and it actually does imply anybody, could run injury-free if you put sufficient hard work into learning the skills in the book. This indicates individuals who have given up hope of ever running once more are able to do so! Never mind the dodgy knees or perpetual shin splints, the approaches of Danny Dreyer will get you out running once more and totally devoid of discomfort.

Enjoyment is a persistent theme in Dreyer's book. Throughout the book he says to smile and take time out from working on method to look around and enjoy your surroundings. This part is often forgotten.

Dreyer Brings You Problem-free Running

Danny Dreyer offers an array of 'focuses' to work on as you run. You only have to consider 1 or 2 of these per training run, so it does not get too difficult.

One important component is stride length which tends to be too long, resulting in heel strike as the front foot lands. In effect the straightened leg in this position functions as a brake. As a result shock is experienced in the joints which can lead to injury in time. This harmful long stride should become sufficiently short to permit you to land on the front of the foot.

Problem-free AND Effortless Running

This much smaller stride is a little unusual initially however you get used to it. A nice result of this is that a lot of the hard work is gotten rid of as you merely lean at the ankle to increase or decrease velocity. It's as simple as that, although it's not actually straightforward and does take a great deal of practice.

I would advise that everyone use a sports massage therapist when training for distance event. Honestly, the recovery process is sped up and any niggles are worked out of the legs AND injuries do not occur! Obviously, the better running strategy plays a huge part but the massage definitely played a significant role in my hassle-free preparation and love of the occasion itself.

Honestly, I would heartily suggest that anybody training for a long distance event include massage as a crucial part of their training. It actually aids with the recuperation and guarantees you begin the next run fresh and prepared for action. Sports massage certainly helped me get to the starting line in excellent nick!

I highly recommend both ChiRunning technique and Sports massage to all endurance runners. Go easy on yourself, ay?