Running

I was thinking about my "running" journey this morning... it has been good so far starting up running as a hobby and as a stress reliever. However, it is starting to get to be THAT time of year - meaning it is getting to be over 90 degrees and almost 100% humidity outside. Oh, that crazy Missouri weather. Yesterday was one of those days. So I recommend getting out there as early (or late) as you can so you can avoid the gym and still stay safe. =) I believe part of the fun and stress relief help of running is being able to go outside and appreciate nature - this seems to be the basis for a lot of my favorite stress techniques!



I ran across an article (no pun intended!) on some great tips and great benefits for being a runner. There are especially some good tips for beginner runners.
1. Take a walking break in between your running phases. This decreases all the extra stress to your body. Doing this for just a minute will help! Blood flow is a big factor in the walk that helps... interesting!
2. Don't run on an injury!
3. Endorphins are amazing hormones. As well as making you feel good after a workout as most of us may know, they help get rid of most of those achy feelings you might get!
(Galloway, 2007)

For some good running shoes (because this is all the money you'll have to spend for the activity if not at a gym!) I would recommend Mizuno (my choice). They have quite pricey shoes up into the $130 range, but try looking at a discount store for last season's. I got mine for $45 at the Shoe Department in the local mall. I've heard Asics are good as well, but I have wider feet which seem to fit the Mizunos pretty comfortably.

Lastly, for all you already-serious runners or those looking for some great inspiration... you should definitely check this site out:
http://www.runnersworld.com/
I check the discussions almost every day for inspiration. =)