Run Away from High Gas Prices

Wednesday May 28, 2008

As I was filling up my car at the gas station yesterday, I gasped when I looked at the final price on the pump. I know I'm not alone when I admit that the ridiculously high cost of gas has made me reevaluate my day-to-day routine. I've started to think carefully about when and how much I really need to be driving. Now that the weather is nicer, I've started to do more errands powered by calories and my running shoes, rather than expensive gas in my car. Although it takes a little longer, it's healthier and more economical.

Here are some other ways that you can save some gas:

Run more local races. Even if your running buddy is trying to convince you that you absolutely have to run a half-marathon that's two hours away, now's not the best time to be traveling far to run races. Try to look for smaller, local races that you may not even know exist.
Buy running gear and supplies online. I love giving running specialty shops business but, unfortunately, I don't have one in my town and I have to use a lot of precious gas to get to the closest one. But there are plenty of great deals on the Internet for your favorite running shoes, clothing, and other gear.
Head out your door and run. It's nice to be able to drive to a park or some trails for a relaxing, car-free run, but doing so often involves a car ride just to get to your running destination. You can save gas and time by heading outside and hitting your local roads. Use Map My Run or similar sites to plan and measure your routes.

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