Is Your School a Part of the "Safe Routes to School" Program?

When I was planning my solo run across the Mojave Desert, I got in touch with the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program. They helped to promote my running adventure to schools in the USA so that children could trek along with me virtually by logging distance while going to and from school.

SRTS programs are sustained efforts by parents, schools, community leaders and local, state, and federal governments to improve the health and well-being of children by enabling and encouraging them to walk and bicycle to school. I think it's a wonderful and worthwhile program!

Children today are simply not getting enough physical activity, contributing to growing rates of obesity and obesity-related health problems. SRTS projects make it safer for more children to walk and bicycle to school, which helps to address and combat the obesity crisis among children.

The SRTS statistics show:

• Over the past 40 years, rates of obesity have soared among children of all ages in the United States, and approximately 25 million children and adolescents — more than 33% — are now overweight or obese, or at risk of becoming so.
• Kids are less active today, and 23% of children get no free time physical activity at all.
• The prevalence of obesity is so great that today’s generation of children may be the first in over 200 years to live less healthy and have a shorter lifespan than their parents.
• High rates of obesity and low rates of physical activity mean that more than half of Latina girls are expected to get diabetes over the course of their lifetime, and the numbers are almost as high for African American girls.
• Today, approximately one-quarter of health care costs in the United States are attributable to obesity, and health care costs just for childhood obesity are estimated at approximately $14 billion per year.
• People living in auto-oriented suburbs drive more, walk less, and are more obese than people living in walkable communities. For each hour of driving per day, obesity increases 6 percent, but walking for transportation reduces the risk of obesity.
• Walking one mile to and from school each day is two-thirds of the recommended sixty minutes of physical activity a day. Plus, children who walk to school have higher levels of physical activity throughout the day.

SRTS programs also benefit academic performance through the physical fitness that it encourages children to do!

• Physical activity and fitness boost learning and memory in children; fitness-associated performance benefits are largest for those situations in which initial learning is the most challenging.
• Sixth- and ninth-grade students with high fitness scored significantly better on math and social studies tests compared with less fit students, even after controlling for socioeconomic status. Muscular strength and muscular endurance were significantly associated with academic achievement in all grades.
• Lower performing students appear to derive particular benefit from physical activity.  In addition, short bicycling exercise periods resulted in enhanced neuronal activity and increased cognitive performance for teenagers with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• When children get physical activity before class, they are more on task and fidget less.  This is true for both girls and boys, and has been shown to be particularly beneficial for children who have the most trouble paying attention and those with attention deficit disorders.

SRTS projects focus on infrastructure improvements, student traffic education, and driver enforcement that improve safety for children, many of whom already walk or bicycle in unsafe conditions.

• People walking are more than twice as likely to be struck by a vehicle in locations without sidewalks.
• More than 7% of high school students reported missing at least one day of school in the past 30 days because they felt unsafe from bullying or violence either at school or on their way to or from school.
• A safety analysis by the California Department of Transportation estimated that the safety benefit of SRTS caused a 49 percent decrease in the childhood bicycle and pedestrian collision rates.

SRTS projects increase the number of children walking and bicycling to school, which also cuts down on the number of cars. As cars emit pollutants for each mile traveled, reducing traffic can improve the quality of air that children breathe in and around their schools.

• Children exposed to traffic pollution are more likely to have asthma, permanent lung deficits, and a higher risk of heart and lung problems as adults.
• Over the last 25 years, among children ages 5 to 14, there has been a 74 percent increase in asthma cases. In addition, 14 million days of school are missed every year due to asthma.
• One-third of schools are in “air pollution danger zones.”
• Schools that are designed so children can walk and bicycle have measurably better air quality.
• A 5% increase in a neighborhood’s “walkability” reduces vehicle miles traveled by 6%.

I was born in 1965 and research shows that if we could return to mid-1960's levels of walking and bicycling to school it would save 3.2 billion vehicle miles, 1.5 million tons of carbon dioxide, and 89,000 tons of other pollutants — equal to keeping more than 250,000 cars off the road for a year! I believe our society has benefited a lot from 'advancements' over the years, but I wish that we could return to the frequency of walking/bicycling to school as we did 50 years ago.

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

My Favorite Athlete at the 2016 Olympic Games

I've been a fan of watching the Olympic Games since 1976, when it was held in Montreal, Canada. I was only 11 years old back then, but remember cheering on Team USA during our nation's bicentennial year. I had only discovered running a year earlier, participating in some school fun run events at age 10. The athletes that appealed to me the most were track and field athletes.

At a very young age, I knew that track was something I wanted to do. I was fortunate to run competitive track from age 13 through 19. Although my track days are long behind me, I still enjoy watching any track meet -- from a local middle school meet up to the Olympic Games. Right now all eyes are on Rio for the 2016 Olympics, and I have a favorite track athlete that I'm rooting for.

The one I'm rooting for the most is a 30-year-old woman, who is participating in her 4th Olympics. Her name is Allyson Felix and she has the heart and determination of a true champion. She will run the 400 Meter and 4x400 Meter Relay in Rio, but she will not defend her Olympic 200 Meter gold medal after missing the team by just .01 seconds. Let's put that into perspective. The average person blinks in 3/10ths of a second. Allyson missed qualifying for the Olympics in the 200 Meter by 1/100th of a second! You can't even blink that fast! That was the sliver of time she came up short to be able to defend her Olympic 200 Meter gold medal in Rio.

As many fans of Allyson know, she hurt her right ankle during training this spring and was at less than 100 percent when she ran in the U.S. Olympic Trials in July of this year. On her Instagram before the Olympic Trials she wrote: "This year has been a tough one. An accident in the gym turned my preparation upside down. The journey has been hard. Pain. Frustration. Tears. Anger. Uncertainty. I've poured myself into an endless amount of rehab, therapy and treatment. ONLY by the grace of God I will walk to the starting line tomorrow. Undoubtedly, this will be the hardest team I try to make. I refuse to give up on my dreams. I'm a fighter and tomorrow one of my biggest fights begins."

After qualifying for this year's U.S. Olympic Team she said: "I can't put into words what this moment means to me. All glory to God! He made a way when I simply could not see one. Thank you so much to all of you for uplifting me in prayers. I felt so much support and love when I needed it the most. I'm going to Rio!!! What an honor and privilege to represent the USA in my 4th Olympics!!!!"

Allyson is 5'6" and tried out for track in the ninth grade. She gained international attention at age 18 when she finished as a silver medalist in the 200 Meters at the 2004 Summer Olympics. She specializes in the 100 Meters, 200 Meters and 400 Meters. At 200 Meters, she is the 2012 Olympic champion, a 3-time World champion (2005–09), and 2-time Olympic silver medalist (2004–08). In 2015, she became World champion at 400 Meters. She has won three additional Olympic gold medals as a member of the United States' women's relay teams; two at 4 x 400 Meters (2008–12) and one as part of the 2012 world-record 4 x 100 Meters team. As a participant in the US Anti-Doping Agency's "Project Believe" program, Allyson is regularly tested to ensure that her body is free of performance-enhancing drugs.

Allyson is a devout Christian and the daughter of an ordained minister and professor at a seminary. Allyson describes her running ability as a gift from God, "For me, my faith is the reason I run. I definitely feel I have this amazing gift that God has blessed me with, and it's all about using it to the best of my ability." 

Last year Allyson was quoted as saying: "I am most proud that no matter the outcome my character and integrity is always in tact." I respect athletes that hold themselves to a higher standard, one where character and integrity mean more than anything else. Our world needs more people like Allyson -- those who will commit to being their very best while also being a positive role model for young people. I'll be watching Allyson compete next week and rooting for an athlete who places God, character and integrity above winning.

By the way, when you're watching the U.S. Olympic track and field coverage, you can't miss Allyson Felix. She's the one who is always smiling!

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

Be "Brainy and Footsy" – Kid, You'll Move Mountains!

In 26 years, Oh, the Places You’ll Go! has sold more than 12.5 million copies in all formats, with sales increasing over the past four years. It is the last book Theodor Seuss Geisel ("Dr. Seuss") published before he died in 1991 and it's Seuss’ best-selling book of all time. The book was published in 1990, the year I became a 5th grade teacher. Much of the book resonates with me and the ultra-running journeys I've been on across states and countries have often had me thinking about the words of that book. Here are some passages that I truly appreciate:

Congratulations!
Today is your day.
You're off to Great Places!
You're off and away!
You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself
any direction you choose.
You're on your own. And you know what you know.
And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go.
You'll look up and down streets. Look 'em over with care.
About some you will say, "I don't choose to go there."
With your head full of brains and your shoes full of feet,
you're too smart to go down any not-so-good street.
And you may not find any
you'll want to go down.
In that case, of course,
you'll head straight out of town.
It's opener there
in the wide open air.
Out there things can happen
and frequently do
to people as brainy
and footsy as you.
And when things start to happen,
don't worry. Don't stew.
Just go right along.
You'll start happening too.
OH!
THE PLACES YOU'LL GO!

There have certainly been times in my life when I've chosen not to go down a certain road, and other times when the wide open spaces have called me. OH! THE PLACES I'VE GONE! My feet have carried me to the heart of Alaska, the top of the Rocky Mountains and Appalachian Mountains, into the openness of the Great Plains, through huge cities, to the front doors of the White House, and literally from ocean to ocean. It's true... you can steer yourself any direction you choose.

Dr. Seuss also writes this in the book:

On and on you will hike,
And I know you'll hike far
and face up to your problems
whatever they are.
You'll get mixed up, of course,
as you already know.
You'll get mixed up
with many strange birds as you go.
So be sure when you step.
Step with care and great tact
and remember that Life's
a Great Balancing Act.
Just never forget to be dexterous and deft.
And never mix up your right foot with your left.
And will you succeed?
Yes! You will, indeed!
(98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.)
KID, YOU'LL MOVE MOUNTAINS!

Life is indeed a "great balancing act" and I've certainly had moments of getting mixed up -- as we all do from time to time. The last line of Seuss' Oh, the Places You'll Go! is "Kid, You'll Move Mountains!" That line reminds me of Mark 11:23 in the Bible, which talks about having faith large enough to move mountains. I've not always had faith that big, and have occasionally failed at being "dexterous and deft." However, I am living this journey of life the best that I can and not just sitting on the sidelines letting it pass me by. There's more life to live and more places to go!

By the way, there is much more to Dr. Seuss' Oh, The Places You'll Go! than I have included here. Read the book, and then being "brainy and footsy" continue on this great balancing act called LIFE.

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

A Little Run Across America's 4th Largest State

I live in Indiana, but I called Montana "home" for 31 years. It is the 4th largest state in the USA and is slightly larger than Japan. In Montana you can access some amazing national parks, such as Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park. It's the best of America's west and stretches from the Northern Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains.

I ran 620 miles across Montana during my solo coast-to-coast run across America in 2006. Most days during my 21-day run from the Idaho border to the North Dakota border were in 95+ degree heat. Crops and cattle were dying from the heat and forest fires were blazing. It was very difficult to cross the state in 3 weeks without a support crew. However, I managed to do the west to east run.

Two years later, in April 2008, I decided to do another run across Montana -- this time east to west. I began at the North Dakota border and had chosen to run the same route as I did two years earlier, just in the opposite direction. I had three days at 40+ miles each, and seven days at 33+ miles each. I ran solo, pushing a stroller of gear, food and water (which weighed around 70 pounds when full). I started in the Great Plains surrounded by oil wells and antelope. I ran west, eventually reaching the Rocky Mountains. It was springtime, but I encountered two snow storms and some days reaching over 90 degrees. Rain, wind, sleet, and plenty of desolate countryside were all a part of the experience. In short, it was a very difficult run!

I maintained an online classroom as I ran, uploading pictures, videos and journal writings from the road so that students around the world could experience my adventure. I taught about Montana, running, health/nutrition, Native American traditions, and geography. I received wonderful words of encouragement from a global audience who would write in my online guestbook.

On the second day of the adventure I strained a ligament in my left foot and had to slow my running pace, although it didn't keep me from meeting my daily mileage. It just meant that I had to be on the road longer each day. I even managed to run 247 miles in the final week up the Northern Rocky Mountains to the Idaho border... of course, while pushing the equivalent of half of my body weight. The headwinds were much stronger for the east-to-west run across Montana, mainly due to the easterly flow of the jet stream. I persevered through chapped lips, bad blisters, toenail loss, wind burn, and the ligament injury to finish that 2008 run across Montana one day faster than I had done it in 2006. A total of 620 miles in 20 days on the road. Highway 12 across Montana didn't have a shoulder most of the time and running in the rough slant on the edge of the road was challenging.

I'm the only person to have run solo across Montana. Having run across that state both ways, I can honestly say that if you ever consider taking on the challenge -- run west to east. Start in the mountains and run down to the Great Plains. Your body will adapt better and you'll be in for quite an adventure!

I wrote these words in my journal after completing my 2008 solo run across Montana:

"My east-to-west trek across Montana this spring was harder than my west-to-east Montana crossing in 2006. What was the main struggle? The wind! I seemed to have persistent headwinds nearly every day on the road, and those winds would dehydrate my body and certainly cause damage to my skin. The effort I had to expend in order to make progress through a 35 to 42 mile day was often indescribable. I burned many more calories due to the amount of exertion needed to accomplish the large daily distances, and my energy levels were often operating below what is usually acceptable for such ultra-endurance treks. My recovery time at night was shortened due to the extended amount of time I had to be on the road each day to accomplish the distances in order to complete the 620-mile course in 20 days on the road. It was truly exhausting. The weather tossed at me everything I could have imagined. I ran through two snowstorms, many moments of cold sleet, rain, and days of heat that were so intense that I couldn't keep the sun block lotion on well enough to fully protect my skin. I burned my left ear, my nose, my left collarbone, and my left shoulder blade. By "burn" I mean literally bubbling up the skin on my body in those locations due to heat so hot that it cooked my skin. Since I was always facing west, the sun would come up in the morning behind me and slowly work its way around my left side (the south side) and eventually end up right in front of me. As a result, the right side of my body was spared the damage that the left side received. I'm still working on recovering my skin from the intense heat. After eastern Montana, the heat did not return until my final three days, when I would see the temperatures soar up to 90 degrees. In all, I trekked through temperatures ranging from 19 degrees to 90 degrees. There was quite a bit of damage to my feet on this trek, and that damage started during the rain, slush and eventual snow of day three. My feet got soaked in my running shoes and began to deteriorate. From that point on, I never had enough time off the road to repair my damaged feet (there were some very large, intense blisters). I would spend 20 minutes each morning just bandaging my feet to push them into my shoes for another day. The pain for the first three miles of each day was intense at times and I would walk slowly and try to mentally block out the discomfort. After awhile, my feet would become numb. However, if I were to stop for 20 minutes or more, the pain would return with a vengeance due to the blood flow increasing in my feet (part of the body's damage control process). At the end of the day I dreaded having to take off my running shoes to discover what else may have happened with my feet."

Yep... it was a tough adventure to accomplish. However, I experienced Montana border to border on foot -- similar to the way explorers Lewis and Clark had done 203 years earlier.

I just had to close this post with a picture of my two sons pushing my stroller, "BOB" (short for 'Beast Of Burden'). This picture was taken a couple of days before I finished my run across Montana in 2008. Kyler (left in the picture) was 10 years old and Brian was 8. I'll never forget their encouragement as I was pushing up the final mountain pass for the Idaho border.

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_____________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

Go For A Run -- And Leave The Gadgets Behind

I've been a runner since 1976. Back then you could pick up a copy of Runner's World magazine and see that most of the advertisements were for running shoes and clothes. Now, all sorts of 'gadgets' can be found, supposedly making you a better and/or more efficient runner. Times have really changed in 40 years since I first strapped on a pair of shoes and became a part of the running boom of the 1970's. Many of today's "runners" look like they're ready to board a rocket for a trip into space! Running gadgets have become a necessity for so many runners. Maybe I'm to 'old school,' but I just don't see the need for all of these gadgets.

I can't say that I haven't purchased a few gadgets myself. My first such gadget was a Panasonic Walkman Cassette Player in 1981... which seemed to cut out the music with every other heel strike, but it was considered cool because you could have music on the run. I've also had headlamps, a safety vest and safety lights for night running, as well as a CamelBak for very long runs. Of course, as I've run solo across states and countries I've had with me a variety of gadgets (GPS, computer, satellite phone, digital camera, cell phone, etc.). However, I don't use those items for everyday running. So, I can't say that I haven't purchased gadgets for running. However, I don't need gadgets or technology to be a runner, and neither do you.

There are some gadgets for runners that I've never used, such as a heart rate monitor. I suppose since I'm a guy that has run as much as 100 miles in a day that it would be presumed that I would have trained with a heart monitor, but I haven't. I've also never purchased an iPhone and I don't use computerized equipment to monitor my running. I don't upload my training runs to any online log and I don't post selfies on each training run I do (although I do take selfies when I'm running across a state or country). I've never used the high-tech synthetic tape, a GoPro, recovery sandals, arm warmers, or pace bands.

Running gadgets are everywhere and companies make a lot of money by convincing runners -- especially newbies -- that you aren't a real runner unless you have these gadgets. My advice to you is to unplug for your next run. Put on some running attire and head out the door, even leaving your watch behind (and I rarely run with a watch). Take in the sights and sounds around you and don't worry about how fast your mile splits are or if your heart rate is optimal. Run for the joy of it. Feel the earth beneath your feet, the breeze in your face, and listen to your breathing. Run with no set route, no set distance, and no set time goal. Run to run... pure, raw and unencumbered by gadgets. It just might be the best run you've ever had!

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

The Poor on the Outside of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games

In the hills around Maracana Stadium, where the opening ceremonies were held Friday night for the start of the 2016 Olympic Games, many Brazilians saw the fireworks from rooftops surrounded by exposed wiring and water pipes, and in trash-filled streets. Slums marred by gang violence and poverty sit squarely in the shadow of these Games.

Opening ceremony ticket prices started at $570 for nose-bleed seats. For $780, you could get a little closer to the performances. Prices continued to go up from there. To get even closer to the performances, tickets ranged from $2,000 to $4,000. Finally, there were seats which went for $5,000 to $8,000 for a better view of the center of Maracana Stadium. Why were so many locals watching from rooftops? A minimum-wage worker in Brazil takes home around $55 a week.

"It is scandalous that ticket prices cater to very few higher-income residents and that the bulk of profits will leave the country," Bruno Carvalho, a Princeton University professor and author of the book "Porous City: A Cultural History of Rio de Janeiro" told The Salt Lake Tribune. "It was as if many Brazilians found out that they were hosting a global party to which only a select few had been invited."

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

The 2016 Olympic Games in Rio Are Underway!

Last night was the opening ceremonies of the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Games are now underway! Here are some things that you may not know about these Games:

• Best seats at the opening ceremonies cost around $8,000.
• The opening ceremonies were held in Rio's Maracanã Stadium, which boasts the world record for the most fans ever to attend a soccer game. Although its current capacity is around 78,000, the stadium squeezed in at least 173,000 fans during the 1950 World Cup final.
• Rio 2016 is the first time in Olympic history that a South American country has hosted the Olympic Games.
• Around 10,500 athletes from 206 countries are taking part in 42 different sports during 17 days of the Olympiad, competing across 306 events.
• Golf will return to the Olympics after a 112-year absence, and Rugby after 92 years.
• The Rio games will be the first to feature Olympians born in the year 2000. Rules state that all competitors must have been born before January 1, 2003.
• The mascot for 2016 is "Vinicius," a yellow and blue creature representing Brazilian wildlife.
• 60,000 meals will be prepared each day to feed the athletes.
• The Games require 70,000 volunteers.
• Around 85,000 soldiers and policemen are being used for the Olympics — the largest security force assembled at any event in Brazil's history and twice as large as the security presence for London 2012.
• The total cost of the Olympic Games in Rio will mount up to 37.6 billion Brazilian Real — which is $11.7 Billion in US dollars.
• The slogan of the 2016 Olympics is "Viva sua paixão" (Live your passion).

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

A $428 Pair of Running Shoes!

Would you pay $428 for a pair of running shoes? Yes... that's for ONE pair! That's how much "ENKO" running shoes are, and they're custom made, so you won't get them until 3 months after ordering. The shoes are very unique in appearance. They come with a set of 6 replacement studs and a key. You can replace the studs individually, according to wear, using the key provided. When you need more studs, you can buy them from the company online... $18 for a set of 12. Replacement shock absorbers are $18 for four. In short, these are NOT cheap running shoes!

The mechanical component and the sole is made in a workshop located in the south of France, while the shoe itself is made in northern Italy. The ENKO company states that their shoes are the only ones on the market that adjust to the weight of the user. They claim that due to the interchangeable studs, longevity is greater than traditional running shoes, and that the springs have a guaranteed life of more than one million cycles. Further, the company states that the shoes optimize a runner's stride, reduce fatigue and lets you run "effortlessly" for longer -- adapting to all running styles. Those are some big claims!

ENKO shoes are designed to run on roads, paths, tracks, and similar but are not suitable for very rough terrain. Why do they cost so much? The company says that the high-tech product is made with the latest materials from the aerospace industry and that "these are custom shoes, made to order." The shoes are delivered to you with shock absorbers that are adapted to your weight. ENKO shoes come with a one-year limited liability warranty that protects against manufacturing defects. Shoes come in white, green, red, blue or black.

Got $428 that you feel you need to spend on something overpriced? I'm not running in ENKO shoes and I'm not endorsing the company. Just passing along the information.

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

DOG ATTACK! Stay Calm, Avoid Eye Contact, And Other Tips.

Imagine this scenario: You're out for a run on a beautiful day and are enjoying the minutes and miles as they click by. All of a sudden you see a dog running toward you with its teeth bared, clearly ready to bite you. You have nothing to protect yourself... no dog repeller, no whistle, nothing to throw. What should you do? The aim of this post is to give you some information to use in such a situation.

First, just how big is the problem of biting/attacking dogs? So far in 2016, there have been 19 dog attacks in the United States that have resulted in death. In 2015, there were 34 fatal dog attacks (14 children, 20 adults). Approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in America. Nearly 1 out of 5 bites becomes infected. Dog bites and other dog-related injuries accounted for more than one-third of all homeowners insurance liability claim dollars paid out in 2015, costing more than $570 million. Dog bites occur every 75 seconds in the United States. Each day, over 1,000 citizens need emergency medical care to treat these injuries. In 2015, pit bulls contributed to 82% of the total recorded deaths, the highest fatality count on record for the breed. In 2015, the combination of pit bulls and rottweilers contributed to 91% of all dog bite-related fatalities. In the 10-year period from 2005 to 2015, pit bulls killed 232 Americans, about one citizen every 17 days. Each year, an American has a one in 50 chance of being bitten by a dog.

Clearly, dogs attacking people is an ongoing and increasing issue in the United States.

Why do dogs attack? In the case of joggers, runners, bikers, etc., it’s because the motion of the person triggers their prey drive. However, not every dog will naturally decide to chase down and bite someone who’s moving too quickly. Those dogs that do have learned to do it — because of human negligence. Some dog owners are not responsible enough to keep their dogs in a secure yard, inside a house, or on a leash. When I ran solo across America in 2006, I was approached many times by dogs that were not properly secured and/or controlled by their owners. At one point I was approached by 3 aggressive dogs while on the edge of a public roadway. Fortunately, I was able to get away without being bitten. West Virginia was the worst state to run across while trying to avoid being bitten by dogs. It seemed like there were loose dogs running all over that state.

What triggers a dog's aggression/pursuit of a jogger, runner, bikers, etc.? It starts with a dog that barks to defend its territory as a jogger runs by. The dog barks to make that person go away. Over time, the dog learns that barking will make the 'invader' leave, so the dog's excitement level goes up in anticipation. Eventually, the dog becomes more bold and aggressive... to the point of actually rushing toward or chasing the runner or biker. If the dog gets excited enough, this may lead to a bite or an attack.

If you are ever faced with the situation of a dog pursuing you aggressively, the most important thing to keep in mind is that if you remain calm and in control it throws them off. Maintain a calm and assertive state. This outward calm/assertive energy (regardless of how scared you are on the inside) creates a barrier that automatically demands the dog’s respect by letting it know that you are not afraid. When the dog senses that you aren’t threatening it — and are not threatened by it — it will probably lose interest and the situation will subside. Unfortunately, though, this process is not always possible. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you have nothing to protect yourself:

• Don’t run!
• Don’t smile because to the dog it looks like you are baring your teeth.
• Keep your hands in a fist because if your fingers get bit they will be destroyed.
• Don’t make any sudden movements.
• Use a strong, deep and commanding voice — saying "Back Away!"
• Don't look the dog in the eye. If you do, it will view this as you challenging it.
• If a dog's head is low, he is seriously thinking of attacking you.
• Stand sideways from the dog and don’t turn your back on it.
• Don’t face the dog head on because that looks like you want to fight.
• If possible, distract the dog with another object.
• If the dog tries to bite you try to block it with your thigh. Thrust your leg at it or pull it up and away quickly.
• If the dog does bite you, don’t pull away or it will just increase the severity of the wound.
• If attacked, you should try to get to a stick or another weapon and use it to hit the dog. Although, don't hit him over the top of the head because most dogs have very thick skulls, so this will only serve to make the dog angrier.
• If attacked, fight as though your life depends on it, because it does. As seen in the statistics already noted, dog attacks can be fatal. While you certainly don't want to hurt a dog unnecessarily, you should use force as necessary if you are being seriously attacked.
• Once the dog loses interest in you, leave the scene of the attack slowly by backing away without sudden movements.

In all cases, be sure to protect your face, chest, and throat. If you must be bitten, the safest place for it to happen is the shin or forearm. a dog bite to the thigh can cause fatal bleeding. Remember, dogs are not naturally inclined to attack humans unless they feel a threat to themselves, their pack, or their territory. Unfortunately, there are too many irresponsible dog owners and that irresponsibility too often places others in unnecessary danger of being bitten/attacked.

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

How Much Do You Know About Potato Chips?

Did you know that the average American eats over 4 pounds of potato chips each year? That's a lot of crunching! However, not all of those "chips" are potatoes. Some chips are made from a compressed form of rice, wheat, corn, and potato flakes. This mixture is pressed into molds to look like chips, then baked or fried at high heat.

Studies show that the process can increase levels of cancer-causing chemicals. Think about that the next time you’re craving some crunchy chips and you just might decide to eat something else. Crunch on some roasted chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans) or cucumber slices. Bite into some celery or carrot sticks, or try whole-grain toast.

The potato chip was invented in 1853 and today Lay's is the leading chip brand in the United States with 44% of the market. Just ONE Lay's chip can contain 12 calories. In a bag of Lay's Classic chips there are approximately 190 chips (yes, there has actually been research done on the number of chips in a bag). If you were to eat the entire bag that would be around 2,280 calories! As an aside fact, a factory can make 7,000 pounds of potato chips in just two hours, and it takes 10,000 pounds of potatoes to make around 3,500 pounds of potato chips.

I was surprised to hear about a woman who found a cancerous tumor thanks to her daily dose of potato chips. Earlier this year a woman in Washington State had a sharp ridge of a chip poke her in the throat. Due to discomfort, she went to a doctor and learned that she had squamous cell carcinoma of the left tonsil. However, in most cases eating chips does not result in a healthy outcome!

If you must eat potato chips, try baked chips -- which don’t rely on oil to crisp up. That means they can get by with far less fat. If you eat just one 1-ounce bag a week, you’ll shed more than two pounds this year by choosing Lay's Baked instead of Ruffles Reduced Fat. However, watch the Sodium! Eighteen Lay’s Oven-Baked Original Potato Crisps amounts to 135 MG of Sodium -- which is better than Ruffles' Baked Cheddar & Sour Cream Chips which deliver 240 MG of Sodium in just 11 chips.

So, which countries eat the most chips? The top three are: (1) USA; (2) France; (3) United Kingdom. Finally, if you think that the statistic of the average America eating over 4 pounds of potato chips each year is a lot, think about this 'potato' fact: The average American eats 29 pounds of french fries per year!

By the way, March 14th is National Potato Chip Day.

Since you've read this far I thought I'd end with a summary of what the average American consumes in a year. A majority of the information contained in the following infographic is from the Food & Drug Administration; the Centers for Disease Control; and, the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

"Road ID": Don't Leave Home Without It!

For the past 10 years I've been running with Road ID, which was created on the concept that active people should wear ID as part of their gear when participating in outdoor activities. Road ID is a durable, rugged, athletic, fashionable line of identification gear. The company provides various forms of ID to allow a person to decide where they want to wear their vital Identification.

Each year over 450,000 of us are taken to hospitals unconscious and without ID. Year after year, over 122,000 runners, walkers, and cyclists are hit by cars. Thousands more suffer blackouts, concussions, heart attacks, heat strokes and other serious accidents. The National Safe Kids Campaign estimates that every day, 39,000 children are injured seriously enough to require medical attention. Honestly, Road ID is the best piece of equipment I run with.

Today I'm sharing some important information that Road ID prepared regarding nine tips that will ensure you have fun, stay safe, and remain healthy on every run.

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

Calling All 2016 Olympic Athletes: "On Your Mark... Get Set... OFF!"

Rio 2016’s battle to convince athletes and visitors that the city will be safe from Zika-carrying mosquitoes has led to it signing the Olympics’ first-ever insect repellent partner. SC Johnson’s "OFF!" brand (a widely-used repellent in Brazil) will have an official role at the Games, with thousands of bottles distributed to athletes, staff and volunteers as part of the agreement. Rio 2016 will distribute 115,000 bottles of insect repellent and the SC Johnson Company will have free samples of "OFF!" at venues.

Several athletes have pulled out of the competition citing concerns about Zika, even after the World Health Organization said the risk of catching the virus was low.

The Centers For Disease Control and Prevension's lates travel notice states: "Brazil, along with many destinations in the Americas, is experiencing an outbreak of Zika virus. Mosquitoes in the area are infected with Zika virus and are spreading it to people. The mosquitoes that spread Zika usually do not live at elevations above 6,500 feet because of environmental conditions. Travelers whose itineraries are limited to areas above this elevation are at minimal risk."

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

Don't Be Chased Down By Running Injuries!

Many runners get sidelined due to injury. In fact...

• 65% of all runners will be injured in any year.
• For every 100 hours of running, the average runner will sustain one running injury.
• The average runner will miss about 5-10 percent of their workouts due to injury each year.
• Novice runners are significantly MORE likely to be injured than individuals who have been running for many years.
• Only 50% of these injuries are new – the rest are recurrences of previous problems.

By far the most common running injuries are overuse injuries due to improper training: Anterior knee pain syndrome (Runner's Knee); Iliotibial Band (ITB) Syndrome; Shin Splints; Achilles Tendonitis; and Plantar Fasciitis.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome:

• Cause of Injury

– Repetitive/overuse conditions
– Mal-alignment
– Weakness
– Poor flexibility
– Joint ‘looseness’

• Signs of Injury

– Pain over front of knee
– Worse with stairs, sitting and squatting
– Pain is worse at start and end of runs

Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome (Runner’s Knee):

• Cause of Injury

– Repetitive/overuse conditions
– Can be the result of running on crowned roads

• Signs of Injury

– Irritation at band’s insertion (side of knee)
– Tender, warm, swollen and red over side of knee
– Pain with activity

Shin Splints:

• Cause of Injury

– Repetitive microtrauma
– Weak muscles
– Improper footwear
– Training errors
– Flat feet
– Tight heel cord

• Signs of Injury

– Pain in front of shin
– Worsens with activity

Achilles Tendinitis:

• Cause of Injury

– Tendon is overloaded due to excessive stress
– Gradual onset
– Worsens with continued use
– Poor flexibility

• Signs of Injury

– Generalized pain and stiffness just above heel
– May feel thickened, warm
– May progress to morning stiffness

Plantar Fasciitis:

• Cause of Injury

– Change from rigid to flexible shoe
– Poor running technique
– Leg lengths
– Flat feet
– Rigid arch
– Tight heel cords

• Signs of Injury

– Pain in arch and at heel
– Pain worse in A.M. – loosens up after first few steps

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Treatment:

• Correction of training errors
• Check shoe wear
• Proper warm-up and cool down
• Stretching after activity
• Ice after activity
• Avoidance of aggravating activities
• Take rest days

Conditioning Tips to Avoid Injury:

• Start slow and gradually
• Never increase training by more than 10% per workout AND 10% per week
• Good warm up and cool down
• Maintain good strength – hit the gym
• Stay well hydrated and don’t diet while training – you need to eat for workouts.

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past

Oldest Olympian, Youngest Medalist, and Other Olympic Age Facts

At age 16, Sydney McLaughlin set a world junior record in the 400-meter hurdles earlier this month. She will be the youngest American track athlete to compete in an Olympics since 1972. McLaughlin finished in 54.15 seconds, landing her third place at the Olympic Trials and securing her a spot at the Games in Rio de Janeiro. She told USA Today, "Sometimes, I just forget that I'm 16... I don't get paid for this. I'm just here for fun."

Yes, she's only 16!

According to a study by a team of researchers at the Institute of Biomedical Research and Sports Epidemiology in France, the peak age or 'best' age of performance for athletes in track and field and swimming is 26. Essentially, it's an average value. Some Olympic events have their age peak performance later than others. For example, in the 100 meter race it's 25 years of age for men, but 26 for women. In the marathon, runners are typically over 27 years of age.

The oldest ever Olympian is Oscar Swahn of Sweden. He was 72 years, 281 days old when he won a silver medal at the 1920 Olympics in shooting. He actually won a gold medal for shooting at the 1912 Olympics, when he was 64 years old.

The oldest woman to compete in the Olympics was British rider Lorna Johnstone, who participated in Equestrian at the 1972 Olympic Games at 70 years and 5 days old.

The youngest confirmed Olympic medalist is Greek gymnast Dimitrios Loundras, who competed in the 1896 Athens Olympics. He was only 10 years old. He received a bronze medal in a team event. The youngest male medalist in an individual event was Nils Skoglund of Denmark, who finished second in high diving back in 1920 at the age of 14 yrs, 11 days.

Marjorie Gestring of the USA is the youngest to actually compete for an Olympic medal in an individual event. She won the 3-meter springboard diving event in 1936 at age 13 years, 268 days.

As you can see, many of the Olympian ages I've noted are from decades ago. Today, when it comes to the Olympic Games, the governing body of each individual sport sets its own rules regarding age. For example, gymnasts must be at least 16 years of age, or turning 16 within the calendar year of the Olympics, and the minimum age for diving is 14. While most Olympic sports do not have a stated maximum age for participation, boxers cannot compete in the Olympics after age 40.

With each Olympics over the past three decades, the average age of the American team has crept steadily upward, from 25 at the 1984 Los Angeles Games to 27 in London four years ago. Much of this longevity can be attributed to advancements in conditioning and nutrition. Also, injuries are diagnosed sooner and treated more effectively.

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso

_______________________________________

Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek

Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:

• United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
• Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
• Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
• Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
• The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
• Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
• Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
• Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
• Some Cycling Moments From The Past