Making it happen Running for fun and fitness

Press, 18 December 1989, Page 9

Making it happen Running for fun and fitness

Many people get bored with running because they do it alone, they do it wrong and they push themselves too hard, says Don Cameron, the training director of the Christchurch Marathon Clinic. Aerobic running — running slowly enough to keep up a conversation — is encouraged at the clinic, which is the only one of its kind in Christchurch. “The social aspect of running is important,” advises Don. Members of the centre range from 12 year olds to 76-year-old ultradistance runner, John Drew. Groups go on fun runs, 5 and 10km road runs, half-marathons, marathons and ultramarathons. Recently a group of

four women and three men ran the 67km Kepler Track, one of the toughest runs in New Zealand. Much of the track is above 1400 metres. The marathon clinic advocates Arthur Lydiardtype training, starting very slowly and building up performance gradually. “Running too hard can be a bad experience,” says Don. Members meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 5.40 p.m. and on Saturday mornings at 8 a.m. Anyone, whatever their level of fitness can join for $35 a year. Family groups of two or more children can join for $45. For more information phone Don at 325-366, Phil Wenn at 323-826 or Alan Spencer at 886-655.