- Matt MacDonald – The Xaverian Weekly (St. Francis Xavier University)
- in AUS, Commentary, Sports
Not too long ago, I felt like an anomaly on my morning runs down Main Street. However, now I’m seeing heaps of students and community members pounding the pavement before class.
ANTIGONISH (CUP) — If you are like most recreational runners, running in the summer is a dreaded chore. While I thrive under sunny hot skies, most suffer. As a result, most people enjoy running on cool autumn days when the air is crisp and humidity is practically non-existent.
This is the recipe for the perfect for outdoor running. The ideal running weather gets lots of runners outside and off the treadmills, and I love feeding off of the energy of other runners on the roads and trails. Not too long ago, I felt like an anomaly on my morning runs down Main Street. However, now I’m seeing heaps of students and community members pounding the pavement before class.
Click here for the original article from The Xaverian Weekly
Not only is the temperature ideal, but the scenery is gorgeous. With the leaves changing colours it is always a nice distraction during fall runs. The beauty of running in the fall, especially during sunrise or sunset, is incredibly calming and tranquil. If you’re looking to connect with your inner zen and beat the stress of school (with the added benefit of keeping fit), make sure to schedule time for fall running. After all, what’s more important than investing in your health?
If you are new to Antigonish or have never ventured further than the treadmill, I encourage you to seek out the beautiful running routes Antigonish has to offer. I used to be guilty of running the same routes every day. Since then, I have expanded my repertoire of spectacular running routes. In fact, it was not until the end of my second year that I discovered the Antigonish Landing. Now this running route has become a staple, just like bananas in my diet.
If you are currently running on a treadmill, I encourage you to save that for cold winter days. After all, Antigonish has plenty of them. Start today and ditch that treadmill and reconnect with nature. Running outside has many psychological advantages. Rather than focusing your attention on the treadmill monitor, you can focus on your thoughts while allowing yourself to connect with your body.
In addition, you’re less likely to injure yourself when your body is relaxed and you’re running at a pace and stance that feels good for you. Rather than have the treadmill dictate your pace, you have full control over your body and terrain.
So where are the best running routes in town, and how can you connect with other running enthusiasts in Antigonish? I used to ask myself the same questions. That’s when I decided to take action and develop a platform to connect the running community. Most recently, I developed a very basic website at www.antigonishroadrunners.com, and Facebook page — Antigonish Road Runners. On this website I’ve listed several popular running routes in Antigonish, created a calendar of events, and included some important training intensities for people looking to improve.
I have also created a free Wednesday morning running group that departs from the StFX track at 6:30 a.m. Whether you are a first time Road Runner, weekend warrior, or a hardened veteran, there is something for everyone in Antigonish.
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