Is Chi Running a Safer Alternative for those at Increased Cardiovascular Risk?

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease is a global burden, and exercise is a well-recognized route to reducing the risk. Running is an effective form of exercise; however, its intensive nature leads to an increased risk of injury. ChiRunning is an alternative running program that uses principles of mindfulness adapted from Tai Chi. It focuses on altering running gait, with the goal to decrease injury risk. Due to ChiRunning’s recent emergence, data is limited. However, results suggest that ChiRunning improves running gait and may reduce injury risk when compared to traditional methods. Future research with larger sample sizes is required to assess its effectiveness.