Sid HowardSid Howard is an active member of Central Park Track Club.  He has traveled the world for running, from Jamaica to Canada, Mexico to Italy, and has visited five continents.  He turned 70 last February and works out regularly at the 168th Street Armory in Washington Heights.  Here Sid tells us why joining a running group will help you get started with this sport.

Q: How would you suggest people interested in running get started?

A: The first and most important thing you should do if you are interested in running is to check with your doctor to make sure your heart is healthy and you are fit.  Then buy a pair of running shoes. You don't have to buy anything fancy or spend hundreds of dollars on a pair. Go to your local track and alternate walking a lap, then running a lap, walking a lap, running a lap. There is lots of information on getting started on the USA track and field website.

If you really want to get involved and need someone to help motivate you, you can contact me by phone or e-mail. I know how important it is to get motivated and I am still a kid in terms of my enthusiasm. If you set your mind to a goal, you can do anything. It's never too late to start.

Q: What if I don't exercise much, can I still get involved in running? 

A: You don't even have to run!  The main goal should be to get your heart rate up.  Walking is great exercise, and you can walk at your local track or around your block.  Do this every other day.  Get started with this, and then think about adding on more distance or trying to run.  Remember, the most important thing is to check with your doctor first.

Q: Are there any running groups you recommend joining? 

A: The Central Park Track Club is a good place to start.  They offer reduced rates to high school and college students, and anyone in hardship. 

Q: Tell us what you do with the Central Park Track Club. 

A: I have been a member of the Central Park Track Club for 31 years.  I am an assistant track coach and the "main greeter" for new runners.  I am a big cheerleader for people, and give people tips that will help them achieve their goals. 

Q: What makes a place a good area for running?  Do you have some favorite spots where you run in Harlem?

A: The environment needs to be good for running.  I think the best spot to run in Harlem is the Roberto Clemente Park at 145^th Street and the West Side Highway.  It's a great place to walk or run, and because the park is protected from traffic and dangerous car fumes, it is a nice alternative to walking or running on the street.  There are also lots of facilities there, including a 400m track.  I prefer to run on tracks or grass, and not cement, because cement is hard on your knees.  Places where there is a lot of enthusiasm for running, such as the Central Park Track Club or Road Runners, are also good places for running.

To contact Sid about health or running email him at sidsuper@msn.com or call 908-209-8219 

Harlem Word is a series of interviews with community health experts written by HHPC and reviewed by our Health Advisory Board.