Dedicated JC Runners
This past week when it was a humid 92 degrees, I laced up my sneakers and hit the sidewalk for a 4-5 mile run that would take me through Liberty State Park. It's a short run down Grand St. to Jersey Ave. At the end is the foot bridge that crosses over Mill Creek giving easy access to Liberty State Park.
The humid, moisture saturated air held the stench of the Mill Creek combined sewage outfall perfectly. You could almost see it hanging like a curtain in midair. Smell being the powerful memory trigger that it is, I flashed back to last year at this exact spot where I observed what appeared to be researchers in a boat. Their white space suit looking outfit came complete with a face shield. Their full protective clothing made me contemplate the lack of defense my tank top, shorts and sunscreen provided from whatever foul demon lives in the water and air here.
Despite this being my routine route, the olfactory shock never lessens. And as I once again started across the bridge, gasping and perhaps a little light headed from the impending hypoxia I humbly realized, I must be the most dedicated runner in JC to face this stink. But before I could finish that thought, while crossing the bridge I realized I wasn’t the only daring one. Another runner zipped past me! Pushing a stroller! Talking about stocks on a bluetooth earpiece! Well maybe I’m exaggerating, but it was then I realized all the runners in JC that brave this fortress of foul smell just to gain access to Liberty State Park are what make JC runners the most dedicated runners around.
So in an effort to find out what motivates this most dedicated group, we set up an impromptu survey at the base of the sewage bouquet and asked JC runners just what motivates them. The first person to stop urgently insisted we move upwind. Then from underneath a makeshift breathing mask he constructed from his handkerchief he told us he was running to keep from getting fat.
Here’s what the rest of the JC runners braving the abhorrent aroma have to say:
Sunday, July 13, 2008 by Daniel Suozzo
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1. How can experienced runners improve?
Rob: Increase effort in the area you want to improve, if you want to run faster then you need to increase your pace, if you want to run further then increase your weekly milage.
Morgan: As a runner this can be a challenge. There are a few methods to improving performance and boy do they take work and perseverance. Heart rate training is the first place to start. This is the platform on which all the other running drills and practices jump off. GET A HEART RATE MONITOR! They are easy to find, fairly easy to use and they will condition you to be a stronger, faster runner. You'll want to find your Target Heart Rate Zone (THR). Your THR will vary throughout the week as well as your time, pace and distance. Included in you THR program is intervals, fartleks, hill training and distance. The other benefit to THR training is that you will be burning fat, while keeping glycogen stores available to help aid this process. It is challenging and frustrating at times but stick with it and the results will come.
2. Are there any running clubs in JC? Races?
Rob: Not an official club, but group runs go from the newport store every wed at 7 p.m. Runners High is the home base for the 10k that takes place every May and the Half Marathon that is coming up this September 28. You can register and get more info here or stop in the store.
3. What would you recommend for people who want to start running?
Rob: Start by getting out of the house. If you need to, start with a 15-20 minute walk. Then next time run a minute walk a minute, gradually increase, until you can reach your goal.
Morgan: The first thing a new runner must do is get fitted for the right pair of running shoes. Sneakers are like tires, you need the right pair for the terrain and for your frame. Once you've struggled through the task of buying a pair of sneakers for function versus style, the next step is lacing them up and taking them for a spin. When it comes to running it isn't about how fast you start. It is about making it to the finish line and making it there strong. Make a commitment or a schedule (whatever works best for you) for two weeks out. "Run" 3 days out of each week, for a time of 30 minutes or 2 miles. Remember it is not a race, not yet at least, don't go sprinting straight out of the gate. Take your time focus on your stride and your breath. Make sure you can still hold a conversation, even if it is a bit labored!
4. How important are running sneakers? How often should they be replaced?
Rob: Sneakers are the most fundamental aspect of running, it's very important to have a properly fitted sneaker. You can expect to get 300-500 miles per pair, which roughly equals 2 pairs a year for the casual runner and 4-5 per year for the marathoner.
5. Who can benefit from having a personal trainer?
Morgan: Personal training can be great for beginners to help teach them how to organize a workout and with proper technique. For the average gym goer that has their routine, it is a great way to create a new challenge while learning new exercises that will keep your body fresh and your muscles stimulated. Even if you are a seasoned athlete, personal training can be a way for you to really hone your movement and take it to the next level. It is the little tweaks that generate big results.
Looking to run your first race? Hal Higdon has training guides for everything from the 5k to the Ultra Marathon.
Enjoy marathons? Or reading about them? Andrew Suozzo has written an in-depth account of a great race, The Chicago Marathon.
