As you know if you've read this space in the past, I generally write about running. I am a fan, so I write about well-known runners, as well as the local running scene. And it has been a glorious time for running in the last week or so. The spring is really a great time to enjoy running outside, and to gear up for races later on in the season.
But that is hardly restricted to running. It's a great time for cycling, team sports, or just about anything outdoors. And that includes walking. There are a lot of similarities between distance running and walking, and for a change, I'm going to write a little about that.
I got the chance the other day to talk with WLIT midday personality Robin Rock, and her web producer Tony Lossano. Tony is better known as the host of the Nude Hippo Show, and I've known him a long time. They have signed up for a 40 mile walk for breast cancer, which is an ambitious goal for anyone, let alone people who don't really get that much exercise otherwise. It is a two day walk, which means 20 miles a day.
As I told them, walking is a great form of exercise that is much easier on your body than running. Walking is obviously much easier on your joints than running simply because you land much more gently. It is not as jarring, but you can still build strength and endurance from it. You won't get the cardio workout that running provides, and you won't burn as many calories, but there is a trade-off for everything.
I told them right off that I really don't have much expertise in walking. I know a bit about distance running, but the longest walk I have done was ten miles back in peewee football. That was a few years ago. But I think there are a lot of similarities between an endurance walk and run. Lots of people, in fact, walk marathons to raise money these days.
In any case, we had a fun conversation, and I wish them luck with the walk. I think the training will help determine how well they come through it. I have no doubt they will finish it, but training will help them feel better when they are done. So if you are interested, here is a link to the conversation on WLIT's website:
Hope you are enjoying the spring, and I'll see you on the roads....
John,
I was wondering if you're doing the Chicago Distance Classic on Aug 10th? My friends and I (currently 8 & growing) will be running it again and this time we will be blogging & vlogging our training. This will be officially season 2 of "ADoRunRun". Last season was the half marathon in Columbus this past April. Anyways, I thought you might be interested in our Chronicles of a Half Marathon.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9BULzQ2cm18
` John
Posted by: John | May 05, 2008 at 07:59 PM
Great video. "I love the running cam". I'm sure John Bingham would be thrilled. You guys are rock stars. And yes, if the schedule works out, I hope to run the Distance Classic.
Posted by: John G. | May 06, 2008 at 05:03 PM