Well, as of today, I've started running again...I forgot how good (and bad) it felt. Considering how my time is rapidly disappearing, I figure that it'll be easier to squeeze a half-hour of running into a busy day than ninety minutes of cycling.

This doesn't mean my bikes are going to be neglected; it just means that I'll be in better shape to ride them on the weekends and on my commuting days.

Any suggestions on a place to buy running shoes? I used to wear Asics, and don't really feel like purchasing a trendy set of Nikes or Adidas shoes. I'd prefer to not go to one of the many shoe outlets at one of our local Mauls, because they tend to be pretty overpriced.

Try a running specialty store in your area.

Just try a bunch on. I hate Nikes because they wear out so fast but nothing else feels as comfortable on my feet within a reasonable price range.

Yes! Local runner's supply shops are the best source for equipment and information. I ran a search and found a list on runnersworld.com which included the following Sacramento stores:

FLEET FEET SPORTS
2311 J St., Sacramento, CA 95816,
(916) 442-3338
www.fleetfeetsacramento.com

SPORTING FEET
545 Downtown Plaza, Sacramento, CA 95814,
(916) 446-9070

I have not been to either one (obviously), but maybe someone else has had experience with them.

I prefer Saucony. They're wide enough for my feet and are very comfortable. I haven't been able to wear Nikes since they made them narrower.

Good luck.

just like there are cycling forums, there are running forums. This is not a diss on you, Im just helping.

www.runnersworld.com/forum

This is one of my favorites

Definately running store.

By the way, there was the Ethiopian world champion runner, who run barefooted. It was his trademark.

However do not try this at home, as good running shoes protect your knees. I would also recommend the special belt, where you can keep your water bottle for hydration.

Running is very good exercise. Firstly, it is the diversity. And besides, it is good for urban security. Because the ability to run fast and long may safe one in some dangerous situations.

The speed is one of the main characteristics of a fighter jet, the same applies for an "urban warrior".

Most definitely a running shop. The choice of shoes is vast and which one is best is based on your own biomechanics. Only a qualified person will be able to tell you what kind you need.

Personally I use a Mizunos 'neutral' shoe now. They tend to be lighter as they use a lot of mesh in their construction.

I've also used Sauchony Stabil, Asics Nimbus, Brooks Beast with varying degrees of success (I have biomechanically odd feet).

Runners world is a good website for a rough idea of what you need and it explains all the jargon that you will need. They also publish all their 'roadtests' as a pamplet every couple of months.

PS Be Prepared to change your shoes about every 400 miles.

That's my other reason for running, and why I spent quite a number of years studying martial arts[1] in a very...er..."playful" dojo. Methinks we think alike.

[1] Technically, I studied grappling and Tae Kul Mul Sul, but because of the large number of instructors, I prefer to think of it as "Anything Goes Martial Arts" (Just don't splash me with cold water).