Greetings everyone,                 I have to say that  everyone put in some good advise on running strategies. What may work for some may not work for others.....everyone is built differently. I think someone had pointed out that incorporating enough protein was a contributing factor in his success. Over the years I have seen the effects that diet has on me even for a healthy general well being.  I have found that running has increased my appetite and I have gained weight especially on the mid-section. Running as I understand weakens the stomach muscles which can effect running form and performance. I haven't done much of ab excersizes.....any comment? Thanks in advance for any and all comments. Joe

or something. You should definitely be doing ab/back exercises but not because running destroys these muscles.  You need a strong midsection so your legs have something solid to hang on to and pull off of. Very true. The best analogy I heard was that the average runners lower body is like two steel rods tied together with overcooked spaggheti.

Jeff What is a good set of exercises for the abdominals and the lower back? How often? My stomach if flat and firm, but I am having continuing back problems that may be correctable with more stretching and greater midsection strength. I am hoping there is something more interesting than crunches. Brent http://www.planetkc.com/exrx/Lists/Directory.html -Scott Johnson