At a Nike Run Club last year I was lucky to meet Bryan Huberty who is training for the 2012 Olympic marathon…um yes, I was excited to learn from this guy, but even more amazed at how friendly and down to Earth this stand out athlete was! I talked with him after a couple races (where he of course took first) and each time he was just so nice…not sure why I think a fast person would not be nice, but I really couldn’t understand why he was asking about MY race. 
That’s Bryan on the right after his team took 4th in the Miami to Key West Ragnar…yeah that’s like an average 6 minute mile for 200 miles!
During one of our discussions I learned that Bryan teaches ChiRunning, so I hit him up with some questions that I thought might help all of us as we continue working on a our running form.
1. How long have you been practicing chi running?
I have been practicing ChiRunning for 3 years and teaching it as a certified instructor for almost 1 year.
2. What is the biggest benefit you have seen?
Running has become more effortless and relaxed. I have learned to train my mind to focus on what my body is doing by body-sensing and communicate with the body to help it relax. By using my core as my chi center I have "given my legs the day off" so to speak! The lean is also very important but overall I think the mental aspect is what has benefited me the most.
3. Which technique made the biggest difference?
Focusing your mind on what your body is doing and finding mental clarity.
4. What technique is hardest for people to master?
Tucking the pelvis inward to engage the lower abs is one that it takes most people several months to a year of practice to feel comfortable with. Also called "making the C-shape."
Picture from ChiRunning.com
5. What is one thing you recommend everyone try today?
Running tall. Pretend a string is attached to the crown of your head and it is pulling you upward and forward. When you run tall you feel like you're 6'4" even if you're only 5'6". It helps open the lungs up and put your body into proper alignment. Alignment is very important in order for muscle relaxation to happen. The following is a tip from Danny Dreyer
Place your hand on the backside of your neck and brush your fingers in an upward direction. While you're doing this, lift up on the back of your head, like you're trying to reach for the sky with the crown of your head. This motion will stretch all the muscles on the back of your neck and allow your chin to naturally stay low. It will also help you straighten your upper spine without the use of your hands.
AMANDA’S TAKE
Hopefully soon I will have time to set up a stride analysis with Bryan, so I can bring you even more good information about all the ways I am running wrong. Truly, I have been working on the C shape and landing with my feet under me for quite some time. I think it is helping me get faster, so I’m determined to keep learning more about ChiRunning.
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Gratitude Journal
Jan 17
I am grateful for moisturized Kleenex
I am grateful for dried veggie chips
I am grateful for egg sandwiches
I am grateful for funny FB updates
I am grateful for friends sharing photos
18 comments:
Great article & interview with Bryan! I am looking forward to trying out the new tips on my next run. Thanks, Amanda!
Very cool!! I've read a little about Chi running and I find it very interesting!!
I have read about Chi Running and find that if I think about my posture while running, it does go a lot better... and easier on my knees!
Thanks for the interview! This is really interesting.
Also, you guys are compression sleeve twinsies!
Very interesting. I've been thinking about getting the Chi Running book for some time. I've been having a bit of trouble with my glute/hammie area for about a month now and I played around with running tall yesterday and it really made a difference.
Thanks for sharing! I really enjoy reading about ChiRunning!
That's great that he takes the time to chat with people (it probably doesn't hurt that you're cute!). I find the whole chi running thing very interesting--wouldn't mind taking a clinic sometime.
Great tips! Thanks for sharing! :) Plus, Brian isn't bad eye candy either. ;) And you got your photo taken with him!
I heart chirunning =)
I've started to slowly incorporate ChiRunning elements in my runs. Would love to take a clinic, but they are a little too pricey for my budge right now. I find the core focus element does wonders!!
Thanks for sharing this! I just got the ChiRunning DVD and find it really interesting. I would love to take a clinic but haven't found one in my area yet.
That sounds very interesting! I was actually looking at a Chi-Running clinic in the Chicago area just a few days ago, and this definitely gives me some more idea of what it's about. Glad to hear more people are interested in it!
this is great to try to do. thanks for the tips. he is pretty hot too! :)
Ok how badass do you have to be to maintain a 6 min mile for 200 miles?!! I agree with Natalie...he's a cutie!
I found chirunning back in 07 when I was training for Boston. I loved it...and still do!
i know i can tell a difference when i focus on being tall and upright when i run. i can feel it going when i get tired.
*Cotton & Steel* I am constantly saying this to myself on long runs especially. I have had this book for 3 years now and am still trying to perfect it. I too, would love to get to a clinic! I believe this is truly the key to your best run.
Thanks for this! I've been waiting patiently since you mentioned it!! :)
I like it! Keep sharing all the good tips! I do that imagine a string thing and it helps me focus on being light on my feet. I like the way it explains the physiological reasons for keeping the body straight and tall, so that the lungs can get more oxygen etc.
thank you for this! i can't wait to get out there and "run tall"! not sure i'm ready for the "c" shape, but its good food for thought.
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