The fitness lifestyle continues to grow in our culture but so does the obesity rate which is over 35% in American adults. So, as we head out for our run we are still part of what is perceived by many to be an oddball minority, those who choose to run and to associate it with fun. For over 30 years I continue to hear the same comments like, I only run to the fridge or when I'm being shot at. When asked about my running I find myself dumbing down my answers about how far I run or the races I enter. My hope is to make our sport less intimidating and more attainable. Yes, some of our athletic accomplishments might inspire others but I think what will help most is for more and more of us to get out there and set the example. When they see we are all shapes and sizes, running and walking, fast and slow, they may eventually get out to join us to find the fun in the run.

Get out there, your run can change the world,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, trying to smile on my runs, even on the hard days ... At least when someone is looking!

PS: Ease up and lick your wounds, the serious run season is over. Perhaps enter the Holiday Hustle 5K and 1 Mile, December 12th, then take a silly winter road trip romp in the snow at the Bigfoot 5 or 10K Snowshoe run in Traverse City January 23rd, then party and run on Super Bowl Sunday at the Super 5K February 7th. Just enough commitment to get us out the door this winter so we will be ready to ramp up again for the new season!