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The great part about running is that you can do it almost anywhere—roads, jogging
paths, hiking trails, on a track. But that’s also the confusing part. With so many
choices, where do you start? Some navigational tips:
Explore
Whether you live in a high-rise or a farmhouse, your own backyard probably boasts great
running routes that you never noticed from behind the steering wheel. Investigate an
historic neighborhood down the block, sniff out the hidden side street, cruise that
normally bustling business district on a quiet Sunday. Part of the joy of running is
experiencing your world at a more human pace. Just use common sense and stay away from
busy roads with no shoulders (and lots of exhaust fumes), high-crime areas, and isolated
spots where you can’t get help if something happens. If you have a choice, run on
more forgiving surfaces such as asphalt rather than concrete.
Hit the Dirt
Running off-road is easier on your joints and on your brainpan—no honking horns,
pollution, or stoplights. Crunching, crunching along a dirt road or snaking up a
shady hiking trail, you’ll quickly discover that pavement-free running is tasty soul
food. Scope out local, county and state parks—virtually any public trail will do.
Just bring a map or knowledgeable buddy so you won’t get lost. And don’t be a
trail hog: Share it with other users such as hikers, equestrians and mountain
bikers.
Get on Track
“Running around a track? Isn’t that awfully boring?” In a word, no. The
track is an ideal place to work on speed and form. Doing intervals (a specified number of
hard efforts interspersed with recovery periods) helps you improve more quickly than if
you did nothing but pound the pavement at the same pace all the time. Besides, going fast
once in awhile is fun. Sprinting around the curve, you’re Michael Johnson or Marion
Jones going for gold. The track is also a controlled environment (no traffic, hills or
potholes) where you can focus on key techniques like leg turnover, arm swing, and erect
posture. And many tracks have lights, making them good places to run when your daylight
hours are packed. Your local high school or community college probably has a track
that’s open to the public when meets and practices aren’t taking place. (Getting
hit by a javelin really stings.)
Pick some Brains
The best source of local running knowledge is local runners. Hit a running store and ask
salespeople where to go. They might have maps and guidebooks for sale, too. Scan regional
running magazines or newsletters. Join a running club and accompany members on their
favorite routes. Sign up for a race or fun run; these events are often held in prime
running spots.
Surf the Web
Get more info without leaving home by visiting some of the many running sites:
- http://www.usatf.org
USA Track and Field, the sport’s governing body. Includes an event calendar.
- http://www.rrca.org
Road Runners Club of America, which boasts more than 630 clubs nationwide and 180,000
members. The sight also has a list of events, plus personal fitness program geared toward
non-competitive runners.
- http://www.coolrunning.com
Includes a state-by-state event schedule.
- http://www.runtheplanet.com
City-by-city description of good running routes, plus books on places to run.
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