It’s girl’s night out, a first date, a holiday with the family…what do we all do? Gather, chat, love and EAT! It’s the American way, after all.
Most of us have the tendency to socialize around food. Don’t get me wrong, I am a strong believer in food. I have my Master’s Degree in Nutrition and will be a Registered Dietitian in just a few months and I got into this profession because I love food! However, (I hold my breath as I type this) there is more to life and socializing than food.
Chris, who writes a bulk of this BLOG, has encouraged so many of us to get out there and run to get in touch with ourselves again in this all-too “plugged in” world. And I fully agree with what he points out, but I am going to offer yet another advantage to running: socializing!
Instead of meeting your friend for coffee on Saturday morning, throw on your running shoes, say adios to the $5 cup of coffee and calorie-laden danish and go for a run with him or her instead. I assure that you will find yourself just as awake as after your double-shot mocha latte with extra foam and you won’t feel quite as guilty buying those skinny jeans that you found on sale!
The Serious Running website offers some wonderful trails around the United States to go and discover with friends. You’d be surprised at what lies just around the corner and behind some trees! Sometimes it’s fun to just go explore and see what you find. And if you find something worthwhile, post it on Serious Running!
Ordinary tasks like window shopping, browsing the menus of local restaurants or even house hunting can all be done with a little rubber on your feet, a bounce in your step and a friend at your side.
So, the next time that a friend wants to meet up, throw out the idea of exploring the city and catching up on a little run, then going to grab a bite to eat (you gotta eat sometime!). Plus, there is a 45-minute window after a workout when you can refuel your body’s muscles and tissues and prevent soreness. In other words, running not only offers you a way to stay in shape, but it offers a social outlet and allows you to feel good about your fish tacos and beer!
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A little about me: My name is Lanier Thompson and I will be posting mainly about nutrition and food as it pertains to exercise and running. Recipes, cooking (and eating) ideas, and hydration tips specifically for runners will all be included. I will be focused on easy and great-tasting recipes, mainly because that’s what I like! Please post any comments or questions that you might have about food and nutrition. Happy running and eating!