An inexpensive hobby

The suffering economy could help the nation’s running industry.

With higher gas prices and more people trying to save money, they are beginning to look for cheaper recreational activities.

Owners at several area running specialty stores say sales are strong.

Equipment costs are minimal - the major cost for the pastime is $100 for a good pair of running shoes. That expense pales in comparison with a set of golf clubs, new or used, or a good tennis racquet or bicycle.

And few sports can compete with the cost of running on any stretch of America’s roads or sidewalks or running paths or hiking trials - priceless.

The convenience is indisputable. You don’t need to find a ballpark or an ice rink, court or fairway to practice running. Just pull out a pair of shorts, lace up the treads and get out the door.

But the bigger impact of running, especially during tough times, is stress relief. Running is a perfect outlet for stress brought on by external forces, probably much healthier than Wellbutrin, Zoloft and Paxil, the anti-depressants doctors so freely prescribe.

Although decades of research has both supported and denied the existence of the “runner’s high,” researchers in Germany earlier this year reported that the concept of the runner’s high is true.

The researchers compared the brains of runners before and after running, using X-rays with recently available chemicals to reveal endorphins in the brain.

The runners in the study were told the opioid receptors in their brains were being studied, and they did not realize their endorphin levels were being studied.

The runners were scanned and received psychological tests before and after a two-hour run. Data from the study showed endorphins were produced during running and were attaching themselves to areas of the brain associated with emotions.

Endorphins reduce the sensation of pain and affect emotions.

Not a bad byproduct of a running workout.

Area events- The next running of the Potomac Valley Track Club’s 2008 Outdoor All-Comers Track & Field Meets is June 22 starting at 8:30 a.m. Go to pvtc.org for the event schedule.

On July 12, the USATF Virginia Association Open & Masters Track & Field Championship is in Richmond. For more information, call 804/236-0951.

You can also compete in the 2008 Coventry Commonwealth Games of Virginia in Roanoke. The 19th Commonwealth Games are July 18-20 and for athletes of all ages and abilities.

I drove down there a couple of years ago, sidetracking to Natural Bridge for an overnight stay during a fun weekend.

Go to commonwealthgames.org for more information.