What's wrong with just being nice?

People suck in big cities!

Let me correct that, 'Ignorant people suck in big cities'.

As a lifelong runner who does all the right things including running facing traffic, wearing reflective clothing for my early morning runs and stay on the sidewalk wherever possible, I hate it when I get the finger from a driver because he doesn't want to come to a complete stop at a STOP sign!  Don't worry "Mr. Ignoramus", your body shop should be able to pound out the dent in your door panel caused by my foot quite easily.

What's wrong with just being nice?

Last week I was reminded that there are some nice people in the world.  Sally was in a big, crowed parking garage at St. Joe's Hospital in Toronto.  A big, crowded garage with attendants valet parking vehicles.  One of them recognized her and asked why she was back.  After telling him, he simply said that 'since she was doing something nice, someone was watching over her'.  It made her day.  That was nice.

It's a bustling city but take a minute to just be nice.  It'll make someone's day and it will save damage to your vehicle.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

Running like a kid is the answer to foot injuries

After 25 years of running I have finally learned how to run like a kid again.  And it only took a nagging bout of Plantar Fasciitis in my right foot to figure it out.

Don't run with traditional running shoes!  That's the main culprit that caused my injury. I tried to run more naturally in shoes that were not designed for that style of running.  So after nearly 3 months of not running and lots of research online I've accepted that I've got to learn to run like a kid again.  Just take a look at how they run:  bent knees, rapid foot turnover and landing on their forefoot and springing up.  Especially watch them running barefoot in the summer.

Obviously running barefoot is not an option for me.  Natural-style running in shoes designed for that however is the solution for me.  I've recently taken delivery of the new Puma Faas 500 running shoe.  While I haven't been able to get out for a long run in them yet, the first experience was positive:  very comfortable fit with a heel designed to simulate barefoot running.  I am anxious to get out in them.

In the meantime of course I've been busy writing and blogging for the Reggae Marathon (Sally loves this...she says I need to keep busy...go figure).  The latest blog post on the Reggae Marathon blog summarizes everything I've learned so far about natural-style running.  If you're a runner or know someone who is, check out this post:  Natural-style running minimizes foot injuries

This summer watch out for the 'Big Little Kid' running through a neighbourhood near you!

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

How come my foot hurts? "Are we born to run?, asks Christopher McDougall

 "How come my foot hurts?" is the simple question that Christopher McDougall, author of the excellent book, "Born to Run" asks.  In the book he explores the history of running and postulates that humans ability to run long distances is a key element of our evolution and resulting dominance in the world.  Interesting stuff.

I've been running...walking really...with an injured foot since last August and I want a solution that will allow me to keep running.  I think I've found it with McDougall's help and it means I have to learn how to run all over again in a more natural style...the new Puma FAAS 500's will help.  (I love them in Red...Sally is so jealous, she loves the colour red)

Not running has an additional benefit as well: leisurely coffee in bed with Sally (and Tia) on weekend mornings.  Just ask her what she thinks of that. :)

If you are a runner or know someone who is, suggest they take a look at Christopher McDougall's video included in the link on the Reggae Marathon blog below.  I guarantee it will be worth it.

Christopher McDougall: Are we born to run?

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

PS:  True confession:  I have the 10 K race in the Reggae Marathon planned for December 2011.  Two goals: first, cross the finish line with my 3 kids (now that will be a photo moment for a lifetime) and second finish under 45 minutes in the 10 K to collect the full series of Reggae Marathon medals.

The King’s Speech – 4 lessons for leaders

I loved the movie. It was probably the best movie I have ever seen so strong were the characterizations. My friend Marguerite Orane of Free and Laughing was also moved by the movie and went further and identified 4 lessons for leaders.  She did a really good job of cutting out the BS and reducing down four.  I especially like her last one:  credentials don't matter, results do!  Click on this link to read her post:

the King's Speach - 4 lessons for leaders.

Until next time...

ThatRunninGuy