Fun, Fitness and Friendship

Are you looking for a new and exciting way to get in shape? Do you dread the thought of joining a gym and prefer exercising outdoors? If so, I may have the answer you are looking for, so please read on.

Every year, from the young to the young at heart, amateurs and experienced athletes challenge themselves by participating in 5K fun runs to full 26.2-mile marathons. Some people enjoy the thrill of pushing their bodies to the limit and feeling that rush of adrenaline, while others do it for the social opportunities group exercise offers them.

If you plan to start a walking or running routine, you are more likely to succeed if you have a team of friends, mentors and coaches to support you. It is also important to have a clear goal in mind, such as walking a 5K or 10K race, or running the full distance of a marathon. This will give you a strong sense of purpose (other than working out just to lose a few pounds).

Santa Cruz Striders, based in Santa Cruz, is a new, all-women’s walking and running club, dedicated to promoting women’s health and fitness for life through its exercise programs. It aims to inspire women of all ages and abilities to participate in the sports of walking and running, while in a non-threatening and motivational environment.

This club is not for the die-hard, competitive athlete. Rather, it is for the regular, everyday woman, who desires to get fit and healthy in a non-intimidating and stimulating environment.

Whether you are new to exercise or are an avid walker or jogger, Santa Cruz Striders can help you reach your health and fitness goals.

Its programs are designed for walkers and runners, from beginners to moderate ability level, who want to work out in a comfortable setting.  The club provides women with the opportunity to meet other women in their community with similar abilities and goals.

Its members are encouraged to train for and participate in local fun runs with their teammates. Some of the walks and runs Santa Cruz Striders will participate in 2011 are as follows: Santa Cruz 10K in April, Marine Discovery Run 5K and 10K in May, Aptos Women’s 5 Miler in June and, of course, Wharf to Wharf in July.

The club meets every Monday and Thursday nights at Frederick Street Park in Santa Cruz from 6:30-7:45 p.m., with the occasional Saturday morning workout at 8:30 a.m. on West Cliff Drive. Workouts consist of walking or running, core work, light strength training and stretching.

Wondering how all this exercise can be enjoyable? Not to worry, the club has a social side as well. Often, members meet for coffee after the Saturday morning workout, and they also get together for holiday parties, occasional picnics and hiking expeditions.

If you are interested in making a change that will last a lifetime, Santa Cruz Striders invites you to try out the club for one workout or join for the whole year. Incorporate a walking or running routine into your life, and you will be amazed at how far your feet will take you.

For more information, go to Santa Cruz Striders.