PUBLISHED 10/05/2001
First steps...starting out...the beginning of a great adventure...In fact, in lots of ways, it's sort of a declaration of personal independence. A statement that says, "In a world that confronts me with mechanical convenience and idle luxury at virtually every turn, I have decided, nonetheless, to improve my physical fitness."
Later, of course, you realize that running offers so much more than flatter stomachs and muscle tone. For most of us, the mind and the soul gradually tune in to this stimulating activity we call running.
Interesting, too, that even the most committed lifelong runners never stray far from their beginning roots.
Even elite runners don't forsake certain cornerstones cemented in the first weeks of their introduction to running. Ask an Olympian why he or she still needs a coach after 15 years of world-class performances, and often the reply will be: "Well, my coach prevents me from overtraining."
And what can be a more basic beginner's rule than that one--train, don't strain.
