Fall Running Tips
By Dan Gardner, TOCA Special Running Correspondent
Summer has passed and we are now in the fall season. Some would argue this is the greatest time of year to be running. Beautiful colored leaves, temps better and the World Series is upon us. Does it get any better than this?
Special Running Correspondent, Dan Gardner, pictured at left.
It will come as no surprise to anyone when I state that vigorous exercise yields a plethora of health blessings. That can also be said of measured or mild exercise. The American College of Sports Medicine Position Statement on Exercise tells us through numerous studies – that individuals who ran more than 50 miles per week had greater increases in HDL cholesterol (the good fat). Long distance runners had nearly a 50% reduction in high blood pressure.
Well, 50 miles per week may be a lot, but getting outside and enjoying green spaces, fresh air and the like is just the right remedy for what TOCA members need. Even five miles a week is a start to some great living and great health!
As one grows older, many running experts would suggest that you switch your exercise regimen to biking or swimming. Both have positives to your overall health. If the pounding of running is starting to take a toll on your body, by all means visit with your doctor about other methods to keep fit. Walking is another alternative.
As Shannon James said, exploring the connection between body and mind, You can improve your mind-body fitness-its just important to choose realistic fitness options. Reducing your overall stress level (and feeling good about yourself) has always been the major motivation for my own fitness program. We should all strive for stress reduction. Choosing the proper type of fitness plan, combined with healthy diet, will help you feel better totally.
Feel free to contact me Dan Gardner at twin1gard@aol.com – your TOCA Running Editor. I have a multitude of ideas and Im free.
Finally – to help make TOCA the best membership association it can be – keep that brain working as you get very much needed exercise and formulate how YOU can play a part in making TOCA the best association it can be. Until next time, be well, be smart, be healthy and be TOCA!