Well, you knew it was inevitable...the pitch for Chi Running. Just a quick note to say that I continue to be amazed by the good things that are coming from a combination of Chi Running, having an alternative off day activity (ice hockey) and actually getting some rest. Reading this I'm reminded about the inevitable pull of age and the things we do (if we choose) to continue to battle it - but I will happily. It's kind of funny to think that about this time last year, I ended a streak of 200 (or something like it) straight days of running. Why did I do that? Beats me - probably just to say I could. It would be fun to say that I did that in my crazy younger days - but it was just last year when I was 47!
So first on Chi Running, I'm not sure if I'm doing this totally right but whatever I'm doing seems to be helping. First off, four days after doing the half marathon in Florida, my feet and body feels good - specifically not sore (and I know the difference). I gave it a rest the day after, did an easy run on Tuesday and did a more a more intense run today. What really struck me though is that the more I follow some of the fairly simple rules - keep a straight column, use the forward lean as the primary means to speed up and most of all RELAX - the better the run. Today I did another 50 minute run, no walk breaks, continually slight accelerations and ultimately a good temp at the exact clip that's recommended for my next marathon. Clearly I have some ways to go till I can maintain that pace for 13.1 let alone 26.2 but something to shoot for.
As for the alternative, I'm just having a plain old blast learning something new, falling on my you know what, living out my mini-dream I've had of playing hockey (since I was like 5) and staying on the ice till I just can't walk anymore. Yesterday, I had my lesson and actually earned a "getting better" from my instructor who I really appreciate for his few words, direct approach and pushing me to get better and go faster. After my lesson, I stayed on the ice (two hours total) and forced myself to chase pucks and shoot, pivot, pivot, and more pivot and practice crossover. When I got off the ice, I was just drenched with sweat and yea, I couldn't have been happier.
Finally, rest. What can I say, I guess we all have to listen to our bodies and every five days or so, mine says no, Occasionally it even yells it. And now I'm listening and actually enjoying it. Keep in mind that every fourth issue of Runners World writes a new article (or repeats an old one) extolling the virtues of rest. Even the great runner Ryan Hall has noted it as being as important as his training days. So, I guess there's something to it. Guess I'll keep at it - or not on those particular days.
So, lessons for the day: Never be afraid to change technique - it may actually work. Find fun alternatives for your off running days, preferably ones that you find equally exciting and interesting. And rest - it's actually not that bad.
And, of I forgot, have fun while you're doing all of this -
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