On and off running

Tried to run almost every day while I was in India recently. It is heartening to see increased awareness of health and fitness among the Indian general population, as evidenced by the urban parks buzzing with activity early in the mornings and the evenings, both in Chennai and Bangalore. I was particularly impressed with JP Park, which has been opened very close to where I spent all my childhood days. Was wondering if I would have been much more stronger physically if that park was there while I was growing up.

Also took the opportunity to run in Boyce Park on sunday while visiting Pittsburgh.

I have to ante up my efforts at running in the coming days.

6 kms biking indoors in Gurgaon

Spent 30+ minutes on the exercise machine at PK's place biking 6 kms today afternoon. It felt good to sweat due to physical exertion and not due to the heat here!

First run in Liberty State park this spring/summer

Just came back from a satisfactory run/walk in Liberty State Park. Covered the entire length of the LSP walkway starting at one end and returning to it. Ran most of the onward run, and alternated between running and walking on the way back. Also included two short and sudden bursts (fartleks) on the way back. The whole exercise - including stretching and warming up and cooling down - took around an hour. The run did wonders to my stressed-out and worried state-of-mind I had been enduring since yesterday evening.

I like running at LSP enjoying the nice views that include the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the entire length of the West-side of Manhattan, parts of Brooklyn and Staten Island, Jersey City downtown, Liberty Science Center, Verrazano bridge, Hudson river with its ferries, water taxis, yachts, boats - small and large - and the occasional Cruise ship or a Aircraft Carrier of the navy.

A good run after a long time!

While visiting North Carolina last week, got to run/walk for a good 20-25 minutes on Friday morning at the William B Umstead State Park which was surprisingly close to the city. The place is very good for running and hiking. Also saw some people biking and horse-riding early in the morning.

This run was the first after a long winter / laziness break. Even after buying some new shoes and new running wear, I haven't been able to get myself to run in the past month!

With the JPMC Corporate Challenge race in NY just a few weeks away, I should strive hard to get back into running shape. It will be particularly difficult to keep the habit going while traveling in India next week.