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Sports: Running

[ Background | Equipment | Where ]

Background

Running and jogging is an easy and convenient way to get in shape and meet people. Running is simply jogging FASTER. Running virtually no equipment and can be done anywhere, and can be done alone or in groups. If you have concerns about your heart or breathing discuss it with you doctor first.

Equipment

Running shoes (sometimes called "cross-training shoes") should be both comfortable and lightweight and provide good arch and ankle support. Every foot and every shoe is different and you should try on the shoes you buy and even walk around for a few minutes to ensure a comfortable fit. Some optional items to consider are: a wristwatch/stopwatch, a water resistant wind suit (Gortex is best) for all-weather running, and a water bottle. Almost any sporting goods store sells the equipment, and there are several sports shoe even running specialty stores in the city.

The Okanagan and Shuswap areas have few running paths (though the converted Kettle Valley Railroad runs through many communities), but lots of quiet steets and highways. As long as you stay off Highway 97, the main route in teh Okanagan and Highway 1, the main route through the Shuswaps, you're pretty safe. Running routes can be as flat or as hilly as you like.
There are quite a few running races throughout the year, with most in the summer. There are events from a one mile sprint, 10-K (ten kilometres), right up to marathons, triathlons and ultra-marathons (you run for 24 hours...cross-country). Penticton is the site of the Canadian Triathlon Championships each Augsut.