Kenny's Ur-ban-AYT!!!

Photo by run unltd. http://rununlimited.blogspot.com/




I don't know if it's just me but I really had a hard time finishing the 15 K route.








I know it's not because it was held at night 'coz I do run in the evening as well, and although it was my first 15K race, it is certainly not my longest distance.... Anyway, time has never really bothered nor pressured me. I just wanted to make sure that I'll finish it as much as the other races I have joined or will be joining.

The route was indeed difficult for me. I did enjoy the Heritage Park part though. It's not that the adventure of seeing a ghost excites me (what kind of ghost would show up in front of thousands of runners anyway, knowing they could all easily "run" away :D ). Most probably because it was really cool, dim, and quiet inside the park.

I felt faint and dizzy after the run and knew that I had to grab a quick bite. I immediately went to a nearby coffee shop in BHS then I went back to Takbo.ph booth for some chit chat. Sadly I wasn't able to stay longer 'coz I had to freshen up (yes, inside the car where I immediately transformed myself from a runner to a swanky night owl, thanks to alcohol and some clean towels :D ) and rush to a nearby club where some friends were waiting.





Based on my standards, the race was rather satisfactorily organized (I'm not that hard to please :) ). Ofcourse there were the ususal flaws from the claiming of race kits to long lines after the race, but those were not enough to spoil my evening. I understand how difficult it is to organize an event with thousands of participants.

One thing that bothers me, not only in this race are the stucked motorists complaining (although the number was more significant since the race was held on a saturday night). I do understand how they feel because I drive too, but if there were thousands of people inside those cars, there were also thousands of people running. Not to mention the fact that we are doing it for a purpose (the run was also for the benefit of Hands-On Manila Foundation and the 57:75 Movement). So if they think they have more "right" to use the road because they are inside their four wheel thingys, they should think twice before declaiming some nasty remarks simply because we are taxpayers as well.

As expected, I finished at a not so good time (realized that I should have just registered for 10K the day before, gut feeling I suppose), but it's OK. Like what I've said, time does not really bother me that much, most probably that's why I have not really thought of getting myself a Garmin (except that blue 405CX, which I find rather stylish..haha). I think that whenever/if ever I have enough money to buy it, I know pretty well that I'd be more excited to get myself new shoes and tons of nice running shirts instead. :D

As ususal, the final question is, will I join another evening run in the future? Yes. then party afterwards....Yes! Yes!



Photos by The Argonaut, Photovendo.ph, & Run unltd.

RetroRunning!!! Anyone? - The Art and Benefits of Running Backwards

According to RUNTHEPLANET.COM, if you haven't tried "backward running", you are just a one-directional runner, a half a runner, a mobility conservative runner, hardly even a runner at all.

Also known as Retro-running, or Retro-locomotion, this form of running has become popular in some parts of the world. It is classed as a retro movement, the reverse of any normal movement.

The history of backward running has been traced down its American pioneers such as William Muldoon, Gene Tunney, Bill Robinson, Ed Schultz and others who used backward running in their training regime. But it was not until the 1980's that backward running began its real development and began gaining popularity.

Although still quite unpopular in the Philippines, I found a photograph of such event being held here at www.backward-running-backward.com/ (I am not sure if its really here though). But several photographs taken during backward running events can be found on this website which proves that a lot of people are actually doing it wether for training or competitions.

A dedicated track oval or stadium is the best place to do backward running. It is ideal to alternate backward and forward running (like 400 meters backward run and 400 meters forward run, jumping on the spot in between to allow the body to recuperate).

There are several documented benefits of this activity as stated in Barry T. Bates, Ph.D.'s website such as facilitation of balance and proprioception, improvement of muscle balance (agonist / antagonist relationships), development of a stronger foundation upon which to improve performance (due to improved muscle balance), facilitation of neuro-muscular function, and assistance in prevention of injuries. Runtheplanet.com also made a comparison between forward and backward running stating that the latter promotes better oxygenation (84% VO2 in backward running vs. 60% VO2 in forward running); cardiovascular system increases (184 pl/mn vs. 162 pl/mn); it burns one third more calories than forward running; it develops considerable balance, velocity and stamina; it works more quadriceps than forward running; it reduces the ground impact; it promotes a greater flexibility of the body; and it reduces the risks of injuries.

Alhtough beneficial, there are some dangers involved in doing this activity. Since the head faces forward, there is a danger of not seeing the ground or path behind you. Doing it for a prolonged period of time may also cause strain on your neck.

Anyone wanna try it? How about DOWNHILL RETRO-RUNNING ?... :)

"It's unnatural for people to run around the city streets unless they are thieves or victims. It makes people nervous to see someone running. I know that when I see someone running on my street, my instincts tell me to let the dog go after him." - Mike Royko

Sources:

http://www.runtheplanet.com/resources/historical/backwards.asp

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backward_running

http://darkwing.uoregon.edu/~btbates/backward/backward1.htm

http://www.backward-running-backward.com/