Guest column

Running for a cause is an opportunity to be active and raise funds for the YMCA. It doesn’t get much better than that. All funds raised by this race will be allocated to the Y’s financial assistance programs, giving youth and families’ access to important Y programs. Everyone in our community deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

The race is May 14 at 9 a.m. The start line is located by the parking lot on Main Street and finishing near playground of Mill Pond. The cost for the race is $20 before May 7 and $25 after that date. Race day registration will be open from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at the Y’s Front Desk. Pre-Registered participants can pick up packets in the Lobby of the Y.

Awards will be announced following the race at the finish line. Awards will be given to the top male and female runners overall and to the top male and female finishers in the following age groups: 6-12 yrs, 13-19,20-29,30-39,40-49,50-59,60-69 and 70+. Results will be posted on Online Race Results at www.onlineraceresults.com and the Y’s website. If you have any questions contact Kristi Stasi, fitness director at 433-1804.

Run with a friend or mentor

Running with a partner provides not only motivation but a healthy distraction that helps the miles fly by. If your partner is slower than you, focus on perfecting your stride. If they are faster, pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone one or two days per week will help you get stronger.

Talk it through

It is surprising how many runners think that they aren’t really running unless they are gasping for breath. Slow down. While you will be slightly winded, you should be able to carry on a normal conversation.

Make it a habit

Did you know it takes the average person three weeks of repetition for something to become a habit. Worry less about how far and how fast you are going and instead just get out and run! You want your body to get used to being active multiple days a week.

Mix it up

Mixing up the places and surfaces you run not only allows you to spread out the physical stress on your joints, but helps keep your routine fresh and exciting.

Reward yourself

What is your incentive to run? New exercise gear? Sleeping in one day on the weekend? Whatever it may be, schedule it so you have something to look forward to at the end of the week once you have completed all of your workouts.

Running tips gathered from www.runnersworld.com. For more tips and training information visit their website.

Spring soccer at the Y

Youth Soccer is April 30-June 2 for grades K-5. A preseason clinic is set for April 30 at Wescott Field Track complex with AHS coach Jen Levisen and AHS soccer players. Grades kindergarten and first will be 10-11 and grades second through fifth 11-12. The cost is $37 members and $47 Non-members. For more details contact Ruth Chamberlain Youth Director.