June 28, 2010

Can Running Shoes Help You Fly Nonstop?

By Lynn Le | Add a comment

Every day, we fly, and we fly all over the place with an multiple stops in-between. First, we zip to the coffee cart; then across the freeway to get to work; then to the day care to pick up the kids; then to the grocery store to pick up ingredients for dinner; and then finally, home. This is the lifestyle of a common jet-setter, and unfortunately, there are few times that we ever get to fly nonstop. That is why runners put on their running shoes–it is their round trip ticket to any destination; anytime, anywhere. Tokyo, Amsterdam, and Portland all possess a common trait–running and staying active is the remedy for those seeking an escape from the constant stop-and-go. Each of these cities hosts an annual marathon, and have their own fantastic running routes with their own unique terrains.

Runners take advantage of the running path surrounding the Imperial Palace

Tokyo: Fly nonstop from the past into the future.
An approximately 5 km run, the Imperial Palace jogging course is a great way to get a tour through Japanese history into modern day Japan. The route leads runners around the Imperial Palace, through the Marunouchi  business district, past the Budokan (which is home to sporting matches and concerts) and along Hibya Park. It is a great path with not too many hills, and the distance is challenging for novice runners looking to build up their strength, and a solid workout for intermediate and advanced runners. And, for those who enjoy flying at a slower pace, the route makes for a very pleasant walk.

Whether you want to jog to Vondelpark or take the tram, the running routes are easily accessible to all in the city.

Amsterdam: Fly through…a green lung?
When looking for a quality running workout, be sure to run through Amsterdam’s “green lung,” also known as Vondelpark. A getaway from the city, Vondelpark covers 120 acres and possesses beautiful, lush gardens; ponds, lakes, playgrounds, cafes and performance grounds. A nice, dirt path rings the park and the distance rounds out at about 5.5 km, making this green oasis a great place to turn to for a breath of fresh air (or several breaths, if you are running.)

With over 70 miles of trails, Forest Park is Portland's largest hiking destination within the city limits.

Portland: Fly from the city to the hills.
Portland’s Forest Park is a huge network of trails, totaling at over 70 miles, and begins from the edge of Portland’s 23rd Avenue to the Tualatin Mountains. Few parts of the trails go uphill and downhill, making most of the running flat, so it is great for runners to utilize for improving pace. Home to more than 100 species of mammals and 100 species of birds, this makes for a fun, running adventure, as runners get to experience encounters with different wildlife, and glimpses of the Willamette River and downtown Portland.

So what are you waiting for? Put on those joggers and start flying!