The perks and prejudices of running through Manhattan

Moving to the Big Apple has made me rework my workout. No longer am I able to run in soothing silence. No matter how many Manhattan blocks I prowl, visible peace is rare, even when running smack in the center of Central Park. Living in New York City is actually a bit like living in an expansive, constantly crowded outdoor mall. As much as I enjoy running, I'd rather mosey along a nature trail than hit the shops at a breakneck pace. So is running no longer the release it once was? Not at all.

I rather think the desire to run in a less hectic location pushes me to speed up my pace and lengthen my mileage as soon as I leave my apartment and hit the sidewalk. As New York's Winter melted and while spring was springing, I found a few gold mines that don't require an iPod to block out honking cars and tire squeals. With the golden bloom of summer, I find myself enjoying the noisy, cluttered sprint to my secret relaxation, be it the Jacqueline Kennedy reservoir near dusk or crossing the East River to a suburban park with families and soccer games, walking trails and picnics.

Plus being low on funds in a redunkulously pricy city, I'm taking advantage of the many park benches (the more ratty looking ones when I can) to crunch, press and lunge my way to a stronger body. Near the end of my run, back in the busy parts of Central Park or by the East River, I'm worn out and ready to listen to some Norah Jones while doing squats. Plus, there are so many runners and walkers doing goofy stretches and strengthening themselves, there's no need to feel self-conscious. Check out Ted Spiker's seven-minute workout for a quick, fresh way to strengthen your body while outside...or while watching TV in your small cramped shoebox apartment.