Runner's CornerNovember 2007 :: Index of issuesRunner’s Corner December 2007 With the holidays upon us, this is a perfect opportunity to make a difference in a loved ones life by getting them a gift that can improve their health or keep them safe. The following are some ideas that can provide healthy experiences for years to come. Exercise Opportunity Gifts-for the Current Non-Exercisers As runners, we already know the tremendous health benefits we get from running, but those who do not run or do any aerobic exercise might find it hard to believe all of the great benefits one can get. Recently the American College of Sports Medicine is asking doctors and health professionals to spread the word that exercise is medicine. It not only reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity but also reduces depression, anxiety and creates feelings of well being. The following ideas may be helpful in finding opportunities for those loved ones that you would like to get exercising. 1. Membership to local Y or Recreation Center These memberships are very affordable and offer those who do not yet exercise a safe place to start with lots of choices. Many rec centers and Ys now employ personal trainers and staff that are well versed in helping people at various levels of fitness learn how to exercise safely. Memberships can be for short periods of time or yearly. 2.Hire a Personal Trainer Be sure this person has gone through certification from the American College of Sports Medicine or other recognized organization. While more expensive, some trainers will come to ones home and can help those who are beginners get started and motivated in their own home. Exercise Opportunity Gifts for the Already Exercising People 1. Membership to a marathon training program For many runners, the goal of someday finishing a marathon is a life time dream. There are many MIT—marathon in training programs that will help one get ready for your first marathon and gradually work runners up to the distance so they will minimize risk of injury and maximize their chances of finishing the marathon. Premier Sports offers a great MIT program for those in the Columbus area. There are also marathon training programs for great causes such as Leukemia team in training. Not only does one get coaching but one will be partnered with a leukemia patient—what motivation to appreciate ones own health and fitness! 2. Pay a race entry Long races are becoming very expensive to put on with traffic control, liability insurance and providing plenty of aid so entries to marathons are often $50.00 and up as well as entries to half marathons. Thus you might help someone who is already running by paying their race entry. Safety Equipment for those already running For those who may want to plan their own races or like to run but not race, here are some ideas to help them stay safe while training. 1. Reflective Vests—many available on line and at Fleet Feet Sports in Columbus. With the days growing shorter, the nights longer, many runners are finding themselves having to train in the dark. Here are some considerations for reflective vests: 2.Nathan LED Runners Vest: Can be seen up to a mile away, battery is replaceable. One size. costs around $35.00 3.Nathan Twilight Reflective Vest: Made of breathable mesh. Visible up to 1200 ft, one size. Costs around $20.00 4.Fun source Reflective Harness: Weighs less than 1 oz, smaller than a vest, costs around $30.00. Headlamps 1.Petzl Tikka Plus headlamp: Only 70g and comes with 150+ hours of bulb burn time. Uses AAA batteries. Costs around $33.00 2.Petzl Zipka Plus headlamp Ultra-light LED headlamp on a retractable cord. Wear on head, wrist or ankle. 150+ hours of bulb-burn time. 64 g Uses 3 AAA batteries. Costs around $38.00 3.Fun Source Torch with Clip Comes with a 3.5 watt bulb, visible up to a mile away. Adjustable, rotating clip allows you to point the light wherever you need it. Costs around $40.00. Other Safety Products 1. Runner Self Defense Spray Red pepper spray fires up to 8-10 ft, effects last up to 1 hours. Costs around $12.00. Do not leave this around near children and take care using this on a windy day, it could spray back into your face. 2. Brooks-Nightlife LED Light Band This is a highly visible light band that adjusts to fit your leg or arm. Costs around $14.00. Happy shopping and hope you have a healthy and happy holiday. Remember to give thanks just for the ability to run, it is a gift in itself. Hope to see you on the roads. Kitty
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