HAWC picks up pace with new running clinic Published Aug. 31, 2006 By Staff Sgt. James Wilkinson 436th AW Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- The Health and Wellness Center sponsored Dover Air Force Base's first Running Clinic at the track here Tuesday. The clinic is offered to the base community and designed to help participants understand running fundamentals and improve their run times, regardless of their running experience or level of ability. "All Airman should develop a running program that will keep them in aerobic condition, not only to pass their physical fitness test, but also to develop a fit-for-life fitness program they can continue well after their military career," said Lt. Col. Philip Preen, 436th Aeromedical-Dental Squadron commander. Colonel Preen, a marathon runner, helped the HAWC initiate the clinic. During the clinic Tuesday, he led the group through stretches and warmed them up for a sprint/jog interval run around the track. "Running is the only true way to get better at running," said the colonel. "Interval running is the only true way to get faster. The workouts are designed to increase overall aerobic fitness levels and train the body to operate at a higher level of performance." During the clinic, runners were able to go at their own pace and pair off with others that were on their level. The HAWC is looking to get as many participants involved in the program as possible, especially those who are reluctant to run. "Running is an excellent cardio exercise, and there are many who loathe and fear the aspects of running," said Jenevie Clark, Health and Wellness Center health education program manager. "We are hoping that participants will gain a better understanding of the dynamics of running and hopefully make it a part of their regular exercise routine." According to Mrs. Clark, participating in the clinic holds other benefits such improving running technique, breathing and performance. "(Participants) will not see a change overnight," Mrs. Clark cautions. "As with most things, true improvement will come over time, but they will slowly begin to shave time off; especially for the mile and a half run." The HAWC not only invites those who need help with running, but also those that can help others improve. "Many Dover members are experienced runners with the knowledge to assist one another with run-time improvement," said Mrs. Clark. "The HAWC would like to bring these members together in a relaxed setting with the understanding that no matter what their current running status may be, they will experience some form of improvement as a participant in the clinic." To improve, participants need to stick with the program for the long term. According to Colonel Preen, the clinic helps members design a personalized running schedule so each individual can continue their program during future assignments, deployments and temporary duties. "The ultimate goal is to improve individual running with a targeted program," he said. "Any level runner can take time off of their run time whether they are running a 5K, 10K or 1.5 mile fitness-run." Currently, the HAWC is looking to run the clinic once a week at the base track. The clinics will be held in the evenings - around 5 p.m. - unless there is a need to change as the weather changes. For more information on the HAWC's Running Clinic or to sign up, call 677-FRED or e-mail 436HAWC@dover.af.mil.