Profile the running culture in America shows how the everyday runner can become a world renowned marathoners. It seems more and more people are going beyond just neighborhood runs and participating in marathons and even triathalons. It isn’t just Kenyans and Olympic athletes running in the Boston Marathon or the New York Marathon, but local citizens and everyday Americans. Running culture is a dedication to push to the ultimate athletic extreme while enjoying running in beautiful locations.
Most people’s first introduction to running culture is the typical neighborhood run. Waking up every morning and taking a leisurely run around the block is something that anyone can do, but dedicating an hour or so a day to a run is the simplicity of the act. Ignoring everyday life, work, and responsibilities is what makes running so appealing. Runners don’t need extensive training or experience to be successful. They don’t need equipment other than shoes. They are just one with the road.
While supplements are a mainstay in running culture, Dr. Oz promotes a new lose weight get fit look amazing miracle pill every few days, runner’s culture does include shoes. Brands like New Balance and stores like Running Fit and Finish Line cater to the everyday runner. They build and sell shoes specifically for those 5 am runs. Buying just a regular old Nike tennis shoe won’t do for runners. Getting shoes with the perfect sole, made specifically for their foot is what real runners get. The same goes for clothing. There are entire lines specifically for running. Along with music and accessories to make the experience even more individualized. Runners can purchase iPod accessories that can be strapped to their arms and buy apps that measure how fast they are going or how many steps they take.
What makes running culture really unique is its ability to turn a normal person into a superstar. Someone can go from morning runs to marathoner. Runners are known for pushing themselves further, and that is what becoming a marathoner allows. So with just a little effort and an application, the everyday runner can even run on the world stage.