Just like the Kenyans

First published November 29, 2007

Tonight's run was AWESOME (okay, tonight's walk for two minutes, run for four was pretty good). A couple of years ago, I read in Runners World about the Kenyans' running style. What I remember most (okay, only) is that they hold their arms a little higher, which increases their forward lean and improves their speed.

I've been working on the treadmill at the Y, trying to get back into running, and I'm working on holding my arms higher. I've always run with my arms hung low and relaxed, so this is a little different (and tough to remember to do . . . especially at my age). When I do hold my arms higher, I can feel my pace smooth out (I'd tell that I'm running faster, too, except that I've been on a treadmill), but I haven't been able to sync my arms and legs.

HOWEVER, there have been some moments of BRILLANCE, when my arms are held high and they're right in sync with my legs and my lungs, and there's my fiercest competitor just ahead and my wife and kids are cheering, my friends have the beer cooled to 29 degrees and the finish line is just ahead (and Nike's looking for a new endorsement) and . . . well, you know the rest of the story.

I've just moved up to the 2/4 repetitions, but feel pretty good.

Looking forward to picking up the pace in the next week.So, bring on the cheetahs and zebras!