In the Running
Long Island runners reveal their shoe and shopping preferences, and why the exercise is a healthy way of life, especially during the pandemic. By Tara Campbell
RUNNING IS GOOD for the mind, body and soul. It’s also relatively easy on the wallet as compared to, say, a Peleton bike that runs well into the thousands, not including membership fees. Running is also convenient and, since the onset of the pandemic, safe. Hence, the recent running boom that has seen millions of new participants as well as those who rediscovered its joys. According to a 2020 Sports & Fitness Association survey, about 50 million Americans (roughly 15 percent of the population) participated in some form of running. A Runner’s World annual survey backs that up, noting that the sport is more popular than it has been in years and being fueled by pandemic newbies. A recent Run Repeat survey of nearly 4,000 runners, found that about 29 percent started during the pandemic. What’s more, they like it. Since most gyms have reopened, studies show that many are sticking to the great outdoors for their runs. Here, Long Island runners discuss why they choose to run—and what they wear when doing it and where they might go to buy that next pair.
BRIAN: Wearing: Nike Purchased at: Dick’s Sporting Goods How many miles a week? Three to five. Next pair? Nike, again. I’ve been very happy with these, and probably at Dick’s, again. How long have you been running? Ten years. Running more during the pandemic? Definitely more. I have more free time. What do you love about running? The endorphins. LORI Wearing: Saucony Type A Purchased at: RunningWarehouse.com How many miles a week? About 35 to 40 miles. Next pair? Probably the same pair and likely online. I get the best price online. How long have you been running? I ran cross-country in high school and then took did other types of exercise. I got back into it about 10 years ago. Running more since the pandemic? The same. What do you love about running? I love to move my body, and I love the scenery on Long Island.
KEITH Wearing: Brooks Adrenaline Purchased at: Super Runner’s Shop (now closed).
Keith
Lori
Tiana
Brian
Arielle 18
ARIELLE Wearing: Asics Dynamic Duomax Purchased at: The Asics store at the Tanger Outlets. They help me get the best fit because I have very flat feet. In certain brands, I’m a size up and others it’s a size down. I’d rather not have to return stuff. How miles a week? About 15. When I was training for a half marathon last fall it was 30 or 40 a week. Next pair? Back to the Asics store because they were super helpful and these have held up well. Plus, they have a huge selection and you get a good deal. I also really don’t know where else to go. How many years have you been running? About eight years. I started in college when I had to run a 5K and couldn’t do so without stopping. I’ve been increasing my distances since. Running more since the pandemic? Definitely more. There was a lot I couldn’t do, but I could always go for a run.
