Since moving to New York City, people always ask me, "Where
do you run? Aren't you constantly stopping at lights?" In actuality, NYC
is one of the most pedestrian friendly cities to run in. You can get anywhere,
from any of the boroughs to any point in the city, all on foot.
I have already
mapped out my "go to" running routes around my area, for quick
morning or easy runs and a track nearby for speed workouts. The biggest plus
about morning runs (typically around 5:30am), are that there are very few cars
so I can easily avoid stopping at lights and can do my runs almost completely
non-stop, and avoid the summer sun! During the summer months, the sun rises
around 5:30am so it is already bright out and I have no need for a safety
light. However, it is starting to stay dark until almost 6:15am (usually when I
am getting home from my run) so I bring a little clip on light with me that
blinks to alert people and cars I am coming. I ALWAYS feel best getting my runs
in before work, it sets my day up feeling my best, thinking most positively,
allowing myself time to see friends or go to events after work, or... to come
home and Netflix and get in bed at 9pm (fave.)
Those mornings
that I just can't drag myself out of bed, I lightly pack my Osprey Daylite
backpack for work, wear my running shoes to work, and then change and run home
from the office. I live in Queens but work in Manhattan, so my run commute is
the perfect distance for a short after work run (about 4 miles even.) I also
get to run over the Queensboro Bridge which I think is absolutely stunning and
boasts views of the East River, Roosevelt Island, and if you turn around
mid-bridge, a stunning view of the Manhattan skyline. For these runs I take it
pretty easy and call and talk to my parents on my run, listen to music, and
just reflect on my day and my immense blessings.
I HIGHLY suggest
this backpack for anyone that wants to do a running commute, a light day of
hiking, or to simply carry more than a belt can on a run. I purchased this at
Paragon Sports in NYC (available online as well) for $50.00 which I thought was
extremely reasonable in contrast to many competitor packs. Here are the
dimensions: 13 L, 18H X 9W X 9D IN., and weights only 1 LB! It has a pouch in
the back to fit a large Camelbak bladder and on the strap a place to thread the
drinking tube through so it stays in place. There are two adjustable cross body
straps that are fantastic; this backpack does not bounce on me at all and is
amazingly comfortable. I have had zero issues, used it to commute carrying
Tupperware, wallet, an umbrella, my clothes from the day, and water. I even got
caught in a torrential downpour and it kept everything inside dry; a pleasant
surprise. I have also gone biking and traveling with it and it holds enough for
a weekend away.
Osprey Daylite
Osprey Daylite
My favorite place to run has to be Central Park because of
its majestic beauty, history, and is a runners paradise. There are miles of
paved roads, trails, hills, and many different running terrains. An area I highly
recommend is The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, which has a 1.58 mile running
loop around the beautiful lake with views of both the East and West side of Manhattan.
It is perfect for runners, walkers, and fall strolls. For a longer run, the
Outer Park Drive Loop is 6.03 miles with many hills and views of the four sides
of the park, different neighborhoods, and the many areas the park has. Certainly
the best part about the park is that there are running and biking lanes
throughout so you are not interrupted and safe! There are many races during all
seasons of the year taking place in the park as well as other events, something
for everyone to find to do runner or not! I will post a map of my favorite
route soon.
A smoothie bowl after a long, hot run :)
Thankfully, the dog days of summer running are coming to an
end. This will be my first time experiencing the coming of fall, changing of
the leaves, and cooler running temps (Florida was consistently 70 degrees or
higher all year.) So any tips on apparel I may need for fall or winter are
greatly appreciated as my wardrobe consists of shorts and tanks!
Keep running friends.
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