After running the Detroit marathon last fall, I picked up a book titled Chi Running that presents methods that lead to "pain-free and effortless running".  While I've never experienced total freedom from pain and effort, I did notice an "ease" that came with running soon after reading the book..  I read that book last November and then sent it on it's way around my circle of friends who were intereted in reading it. 

This past Saturday (yesterday), I was about 1 mile into the scheduled 11 and was discouraged by how I felt and the level of effort it felt like I was giving.  Then it hit me, CHI RUNNIG, and just like I had read the book that morning, the key Chi running techniques came flooding back.  I incorporated the lean, picked up my feet, and took small steps on the inclines.  I ended up running the first 5.5 miles in about 57 minutes.  I ran the second 5.5 miles in about 53!  I actually felt myself getting stronger (and faster) though miles 6,7, and 8. 

Not sure if anyone else has read Chi Running, if not I HIGHLY recommend it.  Skip the first 3 chapters and go straight to chapter 4 (where they begin to teach the techniques and methods).  As I  look back to the changes I made in my form (therfore the changes in effort) yesterday, it "amazes" me that I ever steered away from the Chi running techniques.  My goal is to make a habit of evaluating my form at every mile I run and to adjust my form as needed to take full advantage of the Chi run.