I saw this World News story the other day about streakers and was mildly interested because the word “streaking” in California generally has another connotation – you know – running without any clothes! Well after seeing the story I realized that this was yet another good example of people taking control of their lives and improving their health!
When I was a kid (18 years-old) a bunch of my friends and I decided to streak though my friend’s neighboorhood (he was heading off to college and would not have to face the neighbors I guess). We ah… er… dropped our clothing and ran though the streets screaming at midnight. So far as I know – no one saw us so I don’t really think that counts.
I will examine the idea of running to stay in shape verses using a multi exercise strategy (maybe not mutually exclusive?) and look at the benefit of sticking to a “streak” to achieve a goal. Here is a quick video of what is noramally preceived as streaking – where it turned out bad for the streaker in question (it is kind of funny).
Ouch! Is all I have to say about this guy after watching this video. Now what did you think of Mark Covert’s 40 year running streak? Here is a link to the United States Running Streak Association, Inc.One the positive side of things, he has found a solution that keeps him motivated to run every day! I would bet that he does not have to watch what he eats too much becuase of his metabolism and his heart and lungs (cardio-pulmonary) are in good shape.
The critiques that come to mind are while his legs are in great shape – what about his arms, chest and so on? Does he do any strength training at all? One good thing about varying exercises it one can focus on several goals such as aerobic (high, medium and low intensity), and anaerobic (toning and/or strength building).
I could argue that to focus on only one exercise misses the overall boat! You remember the criticque about California body builders right? You know a great top half – great defination but scrawany legs? The same type of thing may be applicable if you do not vary your exercises.
Mark may very well have time to do other exercise and negate my argument. Well what about a person that is only willing to commit to one exercise or another? I think picking an exercise and sticking is way better than doing nothing. If you really like walking the dogs and do not plan on doing anything else… that is way better then never getting up from your recliner! If you watch your diet – walking the dogs may be all you ever need to do.
Now here is what I think for me. I currently like to hike, mountain bike, punch/kick the bag, jog, walk the dogs, lift dumbbells, and take the stairs rather than the elevator! One exercise would bore me to tears! Why last night I took the dogs on a mountain hike.
I started up the trail across from West Hills High School in Santee at 4pm and got back about 5:45pm. It was nearing dusk when I started – the wind was about 20 mph and it was dark coming back. I saw crows surfing the mountain (really hills) tops and an owl diving for field mice (I assume). The dogs are Shepard crosses – husky and Australian cattle dog, and they really liked the cool tempatures.
So in closing I would like to salute Mark Covert becuase he has found an exercise solution that works for him and I hope that you too will find activities you enjoy so you can stay healthy for life!
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