Fun Runs

Running can be monotonous and boring, so why not sign up for a "Fun Run"? There are numerous "Fun Runs" to make beating the pavement enjoyable and entertaining.

One of the most famous ones is the San Francisco "Bay to Breakers" run, which takes place in May every year. In this run, participants dress in wild and wacky costumes...some even run naked! The run is nearly 8 miles long. It starts in the financial district of San Francisco and ends at Ocean Beach. For more info, check out their Web site: "http://www.baytobreakers.com". This brings me to another site that I came across while doing my research for this article: "http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Track..." - It's all about "Bare Bun Runs." Just thought I'd mention it in case any of you are interested.

In August, there is a "Fun Run" in Sydney called the City to Surf. A 14km run, it starts in the Central Business District and ends at Bondi Beach. For more information, check out this Web site: "http://coolrunning.com.au/races/citysurf...".

"Fun Runs" are a great way to get in shape without much of a commitment. But once you do one, you will be hooked. It's a fun way to exercise and socialize. One you start doing them you might be motivated to start running on a more "serious" level.

If that's the case, I recommend checking out the Runner's World magazine Web site: "http://www.runnersworld.com". They offer lots of advice on how to become a top athlete and make the transition from a novice runner to an expert.

A good place to start is Beginner's Programs page. Here you will find all the information you need to make the switch to being a competitive athlete. Sections include: Getting Started (Physical Examination, Shoe Selection, Clothing, Form, Breathing), Problem Areas (Sideaches, Sore Muscles, Blisters), Planning (Where to Run, When to Run, Goal Setting), Training (First Steps, 30/30 Plan, Going Farther, Training for Your First 5-K, Race Etiquette, Improvement), Injury Prevention (Injuries, Sports Doctors, Cross-Training), Miscellaneous (Running Clubs, Heart-Rate Training, Stretching, Nutrition, Weight Loss, The Marathon)

The site has sections that cover Getting Started, Shoes & Gear (Shoe Reviews, Apparel, Treadmills), Training & Racing (Marathon Training, Workouts & Advice, Tools, Strengthening), Race Calendars, Health & Fitness (Nutrition, Stretching, Injury Prevention, Cross Training, Weight Loss), News & Reference, Women's Running, High School, Kids Running, and Masters Running.

Not only does running help you get fit, it also lowers your risk of several deadly diseases including heart disease, obesity and cancer (I'm not a doctor, so please seek advice from a physician before partaking in any exercise program). Running (or any cardiovascular exercise) helps reduce stress and lose weight. It's an overall beneficial activity.

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