Civic Center picks up pace with running program

From walking to running. On the heels of a successful 10-week walking program, Get Fit McMinnville will launch the second in a series of specialized programs in McMinnville. Sign-ups are this Saturday, Jan. 26, at 10 a.m.

The second series is all about learning to run for those who always wanted to learn. The program will take members from the beginning steps of running to where they want to be.

‘Anyone can join, but the class is geared more toward beginners and those at the intermediate level,’ said wellness specialist and program organizer Kristie Sanders. ‘The eight-week program begins with walking for three minutes and running for one minute.’

For those wanting to shed some stubborn extra pounds, running could be the ticket to reaching an ideal body weight.

‘Running is one of the best ways to lose weight and one of the best vigorous exercises you can do,’ said Sanders. ‘If you aren’t used to running, you could start off the wrong way. It’s best if you don’t start out too hard by trying to run too fast and too long. The best way is to gradually increase.’

According to ‘The Runners Guide,’ running helps heart health and has the ability to alter moods because hormones called endorphins are released while running.

While running is beneficial, the body must have what it needs, inside and out, to maximize those benefits and prevent injury. Saturday’s sign-up will include information on how to choose the right shoes, pants, shirt and undergarments.

‘We will also stress good hydration,’ said Sanders. ‘It is very important for the body to stay hydrated.’

The body’s most important nutrient is water. Water makes up 70-75 percent of body weight, 90 percent of blood, helps maintain body temperature, metabolize body fat, aids in digestion, lubricates and cushions organs, transports nutrients and flushes toxins from the body.

The series on running and fitness is an initiative by the city and community to decrease obesity and increase physical fitness and the general health of the people of McMinnville through the use of the Wellness Center services at the Civic Center and the McMinnville Parks and Recreation Department.

Saturday’s meeting will be held in the wellness/aerobics classroom at McMinnville Civic Center. Admission is $2. There will be a fun run immediately following the sign-up and presentation.