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To Cross or Not to Cross? That is the Question.

To cross or not to cross? That is the question millions of runners face everyday as they casually run on the cement serpents that slither their way through towns and cities across the nation. Still don't know what I'm talking about? I'm talking about whether a runner should cross the street when they see a string of cars coming or wait until the coast is clear. Personally, I prefer to hit my turbo boosters and cross the street like a madman because I'm crazy like that. But for those of you who like to live life on the safer side, what should you do while waiting for the cars to pass? Do you run in place? Do you try some free squats? Do you dance like it's Saturday night? Do you stretch? Do you stop and catch your breath?

What I found when I researched this topic was that there is no clear answer. Some studies say stopping can be a good thing. Some studies say you should keep moving so your heart rate remains at an elevated level. Some studies say you should stretch. But don't take my word for it, go to your favorite search engine and try to locate a universal answer; you won't find it.

So what should you do then? I guess the right answer is that you should do whatever makes you feel comfortable. If you feel like running in place because you get out of rhythm when you stop, then do it. If you have the guts to break it down like Travolta did in Saturday Night Fever, then do it. If your body responds well to small rest periods, then take a chill pill and wait for the traffic to pass. Whatever you choose to do, though, always remember to RUN ON!!!


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