Run like the Wind!

Each year thousands of people take on the challenge of running 26.2 miles in the Los Angeles Marathon.  This year the weather proved to be an extra challenge. It was a chilly 54 degrees at the start of the race at Dodger Stadium and proceeded to rain most of the course ending in Santa Monica.  Depict the weather, thousands of participants ran the race and finished well. But one questions remains, what is it about running that draws so many people to run such a long distance in all kinds of weather?

 

photo couristy of Nicholas Leone
Sam Houk and Nicholas Leone warming up after crossing
the finish line at the L.A. Marathon in
Santa Monica, Calif.

Ever heard of runners high? Its an amazing feeling runner’s receive after running when endorphins are released putting them in a good mood.  In an article from the Michigan Chronicle titled Benefits of Jogging, talks about how runners “have a better outlook on life and are generally a lot happier.” It continues to say that its all about the great feeling of accomplishment after you go for a good run. 

Running provides many health benefits to those who run. "Running is an excellent form of exercise to lose weight because it requires a great deal of energy," said in an article on The Runner's Guide.  Both the Runner's Guide and the Michigan Chronicle mention the Cardiovascular benefits that running provides people. Running helps in "lowering the blood pressure and helping the arteries to maintain their elasticity," said The Runner's Guide. 


Running and jogging also help keep muscles and bones healthy. Running "is critical in preventing muscle and bone loss," said the Michigan Chronicle. "You will find very few joggers who end up suffering from osteoporosis later on in life.

 One of the best ways to get motivated to run is to have a goal, whether its by entering a 10k, half or full marathon, it gives you the encouragement you need to run. One of the easiest ways to get started is by joining groups such as Team In Training to help you run regularly and with group of people. Sam Houk, a senior math major who ran the Los Angeles marathon earlier today said " It was the greatest experience of my life and crossing the finish line was the best feeling ever!" When asked if he would do another one he said, "Yeah, my buddy and I are planning on running the OC Marathon on May 1."  

In it to Win It!

It is what every player works so hard for all season, to do well enough to make it into the tournament and this year the 49ers Men's basketball team will be entering the Big West tournament as the number on seed. Getting this far is an accomplishment all on its own but making sure all the key players stay healthy throughout the post season is a challenge.

photo by Jeff Gritchen
Anderson going up for a shot
against UC Irvine.

One player to keep your eye on is Junior guard Larry Anderson. Anderson has been a strong player for the 49ers yet has struggled through a laundry list of injuries.  One of the most common injuries is a twisted or sprained ankle which Anderson has experienced twice. Playing in a tournament at the beginning of the season Anderson rolled his left ankle and ended up rolling the same ankle again the next day. "A real double negative," said Anderson in a interview for the Press Telegram. Although he is healthy going into the Big West Tournament, there are ways to prevent common injuries like sprained ankles so that he will be able to play throughout the whole tournament. Sprained ankles are caused by sudden quick movements when changing directions and by landing incorrectly or on someone’s foot after jumping.  Stretching is the key to preventing sprained ankles. An article from the British Journal of Sports Medicine said, "Basketball players who did not stretch during the warm up were 2.7 times more likely to injure their ankle than players who performed stretches." 


Anderson’s injuries include a torn meniscus, dislocated thumb, planter fasciitis and most recently a broken hand.  He has been strong since the game against UC Santa Barbara.  Staying strong and healthy throughout the Big West tournament will be a focus for Anderson as well as beating his opponents.