A Life-Changing Journey with ChiRunning

Mrs. Gayatri & Col. Ashok Panghal (Indian Army)
- Ashok 49, Gayatri 45 years
- Mumbai
“When I (Gayatri) first heard about ChiRunning, I was 45 and had never run a single kilometer in my life. Running felt intimidating—something that belonged to the younger, more athletic crowd. But something inside nudged me to try. I signed up for the ChiRunning modules with Col. Avdhesh and Danny, unsure of what to expect but ready to challenge my limits.
From the very first session, I realized this wasn’t just about running—it was about transforming how we relate to our bodies. The focus on posture, breath, alignment, and mindful movement made it feel gentle, almost meditative. I wasn’t forcing my body—I was listening to it. And for the first time, I felt like I belonged on the running path.
Seeing my journey unfold, Ashok—who had always supported me through every new challenge—decided to join in. A seasoned Indian Army officer, he was no stranger to discipline and fitness, but ChiRunning brought a new layer of ease and connection to his runs too. We began training together, and what started as a personal transformation for me, evolved into a shared journey for us both.
Today, we run marathons together. Not just as a couple, but as teammates, encouraging each other every step of the way. Our mornings are now filled with movement, laughter, and a deep sense of purpose. We’re stronger, healthier, and more in tune—not just with our bodies, but with each other.
ChiRunning didn’t just teach us how to run—it gave us a way to live. At 45 and beyond, we discovered a new chapter we didn’t know existed. And we’re forever grateful to Col. Avdhesh and Danny for opening that door.”
From the very first session, I realized this wasn’t just about running—it was about transforming how we relate to our bodies. The focus on posture, breath, alignment, and mindful movement made it feel gentle, almost meditative. I wasn’t forcing my body—I was listening to it. And for the first time, I felt like I belonged on the running path.
Seeing my journey unfold, Ashok—who had always supported me through every new challenge—decided to join in. A seasoned Indian Army officer, he was no stranger to discipline and fitness, but ChiRunning brought a new layer of ease and connection to his runs too. We began training together, and what started as a personal transformation for me, evolved into a shared journey for us both.
Today, we run marathons together. Not just as a couple, but as teammates, encouraging each other every step of the way. Our mornings are now filled with movement, laughter, and a deep sense of purpose. We’re stronger, healthier, and more in tune—not just with our bodies, but with each other.
ChiRunning didn’t just teach us how to run—it gave us a way to live. At 45 and beyond, we discovered a new chapter we didn’t know existed. And we’re forever grateful to Col. Avdhesh and Danny for opening that door.”