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.
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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.
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Where
Lots of running trails along the city's 300 km of recreational pathways.
Also some cross-country running in the Greenbelt and the city's various forests and nature trails.
If you choose to run at night, run in brightly-colored or reflective clothing, and consider running with a partner for safety.
If you would like to join a running club, there are some in and around the city that will help you
train.
- Kanata Leisure Centre 591-9283
- Kanata Running Club (Kanata), Richard Bowes 613-592-6045
- Motionware Running Club (Kanata), Jane Armstrong 613-836-6156 or 613-592-4065
- National Capital Runners Association (Ottawa), Glendon Pye 613-841-7243
- Nepean Sportsplex 727-671
- Nortel Networks Running Club (Ottawa), Manny Rodrigues 613-763-4624
- Ottawa Athletic Club Racing Team (Ottawa), K. Parker 613-824-0183
- Ottawa Hash House Harriers (Ottawa), Maureen Egan 613-748-3591 or 613-748-6265
- Ottawa Lions Track & Field Club (Ottawa), Andy McInnis 613-489-2209 or 613-247-4886
- Petawawa Running Club (Petawawa), Jean-Yves Caouette 613-687-5896
There are also 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). Of course, the highlight of the summer race season is "Race Weekend"
the first weekend in May, when the National Capital Marathon and a number of
other races of varying distances are held.
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