Bob Beckert Memorial Scholarship 5-K

This time of year, there are many opportunities to test your fitness in local road races. I find the races to be not only a test of my fitness level, but a reward for the sometimes grueling and occasionally boring aspects of training. Don't get me wrong, 99 to 100 times I feel better, mentally and physically, after a run than before it. But a workout like five one-mile repeats at race pace on a treadmill? Usually, the endorphins kick in because you're done!

One of my favorite local races is the Bob Beckert Memorial Scholarship 5-K at Watchung Hills High School to be held June 6th 10:15am, the Beckert Run traditionally attracts a crowd of about 300 runners. That's enough to have someone near you at all times (a motivating factor in keeping your pace), but not be crowded at the start, or time consuming in registration.

The race is mostly flat to rolling, with one exception - a steep incline up the parking lot at Watchung Hills to the finish line, about 300 yards ahead. Usually, your lungs are heaving at this point of the race, and the quadriceps can turn to stone up this short, steep dash to the finish. Many of the Watchung Hills track athletes participate in the race, which benefits a scholarship fund at WHRHS in Bob Beckert's memory. To pre-register for the race, download a form at http://www.bestrace.com/

Getting Started

The expression the "the first step is the hardest" is certainly true about exercise. Often, the people who need it most are the least likely to start a program because of fear. The anxieties are many, and some, quite legitimate. Getting hurt, feeling out of breath, looking like a beginner, and embarrassment of being around others who may be more fit -- all of those things have been recognized as real concerns, but can be addressed.
First, get clearance from your doctor. Chances are he/she will be thrilled that you are are trying to improve your health.
Secondly, pick the option you like best (walking, running, cycling, swimming, weights, yoga, etc.) and start off slowly and sensibly. For any of the cardiovascular options, increase your mileage duration about 10% per week, and slowly pick up the pace as you go along.
Figure out if you're a person that gets energy from a group, prefers exercising alone, or perhaps, likes doing it with a friend or spouse. Again, a lot comes down to personality. Think about whether working with a coach or Certified Trainer might be an option. Indoors, outdoors, private studio, health club or YMCA-type facility? Competitive or non-competitive? What gets your juices flowing?
Once you have that game-plan down, make sure you have the proper equipment to get started. Most often, it's just a pair of sneakers that are comfortable and appropriate to the exercise you've chosen. I recommend making that purchase from a qualified retailer who may be able to figure out your foot's landing pattern: pronator, supinator, toe or heel striker.
If you want to take out your old bike, make sure it's tuned up, and the brakes and tires are in operating order. Then, you're ready to go. And remember: The hardest step is the first one out the door!