Pounding the Pavement
Runners seem to be everywhere nowadays. In fact, running has become so popular that even celebrities are lacing up their shoes and making headlines by running marathons. Requiring only a pair of shoes to get started, running is a simple sport enjoyed by millions of people each year. However, what defines a runner? Is it the fact that someone has completed a marathon or other race distance? Maybe it is the short shorts and tank tops. Perhaps it is the bright colored shoes and fancy gear. Certainly, clothes and gear make someone stand out and look the part, but what truly makes them a runner? While the debate on what defines a runner can be a hot topic in the local coffee shop, runners pretty much fall into three major categories: casual, semi-competitive, and competitive. The casual runner out for a leisurely jog—not caring about pace or
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If asked, most people would identify with this group. Not giving thought to pace, time, or distance, the casual runner takes part for the camaraderie running provides. Most in this category may not even consider themselves runners, but simply someone that just likes to get out and enjoy time with friends. Throwing on a pair of running shoes and heading out for a run with friends, is more important to this group than how far or fast they went. These individuals do not worry about the latest and great running gadget on the market, rarely signs up for a race (if at all), and does not think twice about the importance nutrition has on running. Varying as much as the people themselves, the reasons people in this group run is extensive. One reason could be that running burns a great deal of calories. What better way to enjoy a large stack of blueberry pancakes with warm maple syrup, knowing the four mile run just completed will offset the calories of the