Monday Morning Musings

Pokemon Go

There are people tracking Pokemon around Crescent Lake lately. I've seen teenagers, parents with kids, and groups of pre-teen boys wandering aimlessly around the park with phones in front of their faces.

I heard that the idea behind Pokemon Go was to get kids to go outside and walk around. While the Pokemon hunters may be outside, I haven't seen any moving fast enough to burn calories.

This past Saturday I noticed a couple of serious 12 year-olds at the park during my morning run. The two boys held their phones at arms length as they meandered onto the path. They were pale indoor types, so I was happy to see Pokemon Go encouraged them to be outside in the fresh air and sunshine. But just a few minutes later, they were sitting under a tree where they remained for about 20 minutes.

The real exercise generated by Pokemon Go may be the extra steps runners and walkers take moving around the preoccupied people playing the game.

If you're a Pokemon fan and a runner, then Salty Running has advice for getting in a good run while playing Pokemon Go. Have fun!

#PokemonGo #SeenOnARun #StPetersburg #Florida #ThisOldRunner

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Running in the Rain

It's summer here in Florida and that means you have to be ready for sudden torrential downpours.

It's been so stinking hot lately, that a pop up shower during a run is welcome relief. Plus, once it starts to rain, I usually have the trail to myself, which is fun. However, there are a few wise considerations that will help keep you safe while running in the rain.

Tips for Running in the Rain

• Check the radar before you go. Rain is okay, lightning is not.
  
• Wear bright colors so cars and people can see you.
• Wear a hat or visor so you can see.
• Put your electronics in a waterproof baggie.
  
• Watch your footing. Be aware of puddles and slippery surfaces. Take smaller steps.
• Wet clothes will chafe. Put a coat of vaseline on spots prone to chafing.
• Wear old shoes, or shoes that are waterproof. I wear a pair with solid plastic uppers.
• Dry your shoes out when you're done.
• DON'T run in a thunderstorm. Lighting is dangerous!

#RunningInTheRain #SeenOnARun #StPetersburg #Florida #ThisOldRunner