In their book, “The Family Fitness Handbook,” Bob Glover and Jack Shepherd claim that most adults run for fitness, while kids run because it’s fun. The authors, who have also produced “The Runner’s Handbook,” may be quite accurate, but heaven forbid that the youngsters have cornered the market on fun through exercise to the exclusion of their elders.
Since when are kids the only ones who know how to have fun? Runners of all ages, let’s get both: Let the Countdown help you shape up, but at the same time, let this series help you enjoy yourself … help you smile through the miles.
The rule is twofold but simple: First, run slow enough to enjoy it; second run long enough for it to be physically beneficial.
The Countdown will show you how to accomplish both. If your doctor has given you the go-ahead, let’s get started.
For this, your first attempt at becoming a distance runner, begin with a walk. Yes, a walk. As a measurement of fitness, a brisk walk is the best norm. Before you question this prescription, consider that 35 million Americans claim walking is the exercise for them, and they engage in it vigorously on a daily basis.
Your training program, pace, and duration should be based on your personal test results rather than what others are doing or what you think you should be able to do.
Workouts begin tomorrow so follow our weekly posts for “beginners” and “advanced” runners on SI Elite Track & Field Website (News Message Board) and our Facebook Page link below. The RunKeeper App helps keep track of your miles, but any GPS watch or jotting down notes is just fine to check your progress.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Coach Joe Stasi via email wagtrack19@hotmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/SIEliteTF
Legendary Coach Bill Welsh – Editor of the 80’s Advance Countdown
