LAC LA BICHE - ‘Couch to Confident’ running clinics will be taking place at the Bold Center for two sessions, one on April 24 and the next on June 12.
Deborah Menard, a fitness instructor with Lac La Biche County’s FCSS department says the two-hour clinics are beneficial to runners of all skill levels. Those who attend will be provided with detailed information that can help running enthusiasts at any level, highlighting pre-run exercises, foot strike styles, types of running, and common injuries to avoid.
Whether they are first –timers or running veterans, participants will benefit from the workshops, which she says will provide key information on how to build a base foundation, offer tips and techniques, show how to monitor intensity, provide injury management, nutrition, and proper gear.
“It may also help like-minded individuals to become running buddies,” she told Lakeland This Week.
For those thinking about becoming a runner, Menard says it’s a low-cost sport, with participants only needing a pair of appropriate running shoes. She added that anyone can do it, provided they don’t have mobility issues.
Regular physical activity such as running can significantly improve mental health, self-confidence, healthy aging, and quality of life, she said. Furthermore, running is a good ground-bearing exercise that is important for maintaining bone health, also known as ‘bone loading’.
Menard says numerous studies have shown that weight-bearing exercise can help to slow bone loss, and it can even build bone.
“Activities that put stress on bones stimulate extra deposits of calcium and nudge bone-forming cells into action,” she explained.
There is also a strong social aspect in running, Menard said, by either running with a friend or as a member of a group. She said running is doable if one starts small and then over time progresses to longer runs, perhaps even a half or full marathon.
“It’s a great way to boost your energy; and even though it’s an individual sport it’s a great way to meet other people if you join a running group or a running event,” she said.
The clinics runs from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and will be held at the Bold Center Viewpoint Room and costs $30. Registration can be done through the Bold Center website.
