P.A.C.E. Trek – A Former Teacher Promotes Fitness

I recently announced that I will be doing a P.A.C.E. Trek in 2013. I described that journey to be a roundtrip run to the International Space Station (virtually that is) by running a route through part of Germany and Florida. I’ve decided not to do that particular run in 2013. The P.A.C.E. Trek that I will do next year will be much different and will not involve either Germany or Florida. It will truly test my endurance limits and will be an adventure unlike others I have accomplished. I’ll be working on the specifics of that run over the course of the next 6 to 8 months and for it to happen I will have to acquire some financial support since I can no longer pay for the P.A.C.E. Treks out of my own pocket.

P.A.C.E. Trek 2013 will push me to my limit… and perhaps beyond.

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

I recently read an article titled “Information Overload: Are Runners Too Tech-Dependent?” and agree with so many thoughts shared. Read a few lines:

“Runners today are surrounded by a vast number of training tools and advanced technologies science couldn’t supply to athletes of the past.  We have watches that tell us our exact pace at that precise footfall and will track our distances to the hundredth of a mile. We can be synced with heart-rate monitors that will beep at us until we are in the correct training zone, then later we can go home and pour over the collected data like a scientist working for NASA. Our training shoes are lighter, our racers darn near weightless and there are social networking tools that will announce to the world that we are, in fact, going for a run. Other gadgets can track our energy expenditures throughout the day so that we can plan our diets accordingly. But, do we really need all the split times, heart rates, calories burned, etc., or could it all be information overload? Is there a point of techie-saturation?”

An excellent question! Is there a point of “techie-saturation”? I would definitely say YES! Now, you’re probably thinking that a guy who runs across states and countries must have a lot of training gadgets… plenty of high-tech ‘necessities’… and is always looking for the latest gizmo to improve running strength, speed or endurance. No, actually… I don’t even wear a watch when I run. Don’t believe me? Just look at any of the P.A.C.E. Trek pictures ever taken of me. You won’t see a watch. You’ll only see an ID band that has some pertinent details about me in case I have a bad encounter with a car… or grizzly bear, depending on where I’m running.

I don’t go out on training runs with shoes that track my every step with an electronic chip. I don’t use any fitness or running apps on my phone. I’m not a member of any online running communities or “track-my-run” type of services. I don’t have a runner’s cap with built-in lights for running at night (which I saw recently in a running store). I’ve never run with a heart-rate monitor. I just don’t connect myself to electronics or high-tech stuff when I go out running. Instead, I prefer to listen to my body and run to the rhythm of the terrain.

I know what you’re thinking. “But I’ve seen pictures of you with headphones on, and I know that people can track your progress during a P.A.C.E. Trek using GPS technology that updates your current position at your online classroom, and that you have emergency responder technology at your fingertips for your solo runs across states and countries.” Yes, that is true. When I do a P.A.C.E. Trek I do use some technology so that people around the world can track my progress and run along with me virtually. I use all of those things, as well as cameras for photography and video. I bring along a mini computer to update my blog daily and to communicate with team leaders and students who write to me with questions. Yes, technology is a big part of the actual P.A.C.E. Treks that I do. However, it is not a part of my daily running outside of the P.A.C.E. challenges. I prefer to simply listen to my body and run as I feel, changing the pace as needed and even walking if desired. Remember, I typically log between 30 and 40 miles all alone every day during a P.A.C.E. Trek, and will usually do that for three consecutive weeks. You have to be able to listen to your body and adapt to the ever-changing conditions (weather, traffic, shelter, food/water supplies, etc.). If I simply leaned on technology as my guide for how I should run, I would never be able to be in tune with my body well enough to do the mega-mileage journey runs that I do.

Sometimes, connecting yourself so tightly to technology can be detrimental. One runner put it this way: “The mental exertion it took me to keep up that level of detail with all of my training was so high that it didn’t last. I felt stressed out and on high alert constantly. I couldn’t enjoy my training and all I wanted was more simplicity.” Ah yes… simplicity. I’m a firm believer that running by feel, or listening to your body and responding to what it’s telling you, is a better way to train.

Coaches and experts generally discourage runners from listening to and learning from their bodies in favor of training by a well-defined and monitored schedule. But in my experience, the most successful runners are those who most fully master the mind-body connection and use it to define their own ideal training formula. I always go into a P.A.C.E. Trek with a game plan… a strategy for pacing the large distances that I’ll take on. However, when you’re pushing 80 pounds of gear solo over mountain ranges, or across deserts, you have to be able to tune into your body and listen to what it’s telling your mind. It’s not a matter of “blocking out pain” with the mind and just pushing on no matter what the cost. It’s a matter of having the mind and body work together, communicating well and being able to discern the best course of action for each feeling that arises. By doing that, my body can make the adjustments necessary so that I can reach for milepost after milepost, from sunrise to sunset.

So, if you haven’t done a training run by ‘feel’ for awhile, I encourage you to throw away your running watch (or probably more practical, have a friend hide it) and head out the door. Leave technology behind you and take a run with just your mind, lungs, legs, feet and heart. Make your aim to listen to your body and then make any pacing, stride length, or energy expenditure changes as necessary. Give it a try and I believe you’ll find that it was one of the most enjoyable and effective runs you’ve had in awhile. Sure, there are those who are training to lower their time at a certain distance, and you certainly would want to do training with a watch for that. The competitive runner cannot run completely by feel, but should weave days of running by feel into their training regiment.

Your view should be that technology certainly has its place in running. However, quality running is certainly not dependant upon technology.

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

According to Running In The USA, there are 707 marathon events in the United States each year. I don’t consider myself to be a marathon runner because I don’t train for and enter the 26.2-mile events. I prefer to run farther, all alone, and across states and countries. In a blog entry one year ago (I’m Not A Marathon Runner) I address this topic.

Statistics show that 59% of marathon runners are male, 41% female. The average male marathoner is 40 years of age and the average female marathoner if 36. The average male finishes a marathon if 4 hours, 27 minutes. The average female finishes in 4 hours, 54 minutes. About a half million people complete a marathon each year in the United States. By far, the most popular month for running a marathon is October (accounting for more than 18% of all marathon races and more than one-quarter (26.6%) of all marathon finishers). August is the least popular month for running a marathon.

Fauja Singh, age 100, finished the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. He became the first centenarian ever to complete the marathon distance. Singh, a British citizen, finished the race on October 16, 2011 with a time of 8:11:5, making him the oldest marathoner ever.

Over 350 individuals have completed a marathon in each state of the United States, plus Washington, D.C.. In 2003, British adventurer Sir Ranulph Fiennes completed seven marathons on seven continents in seven days. He completed this feat despite suffering from a heart attack and undergoing a double heart bypass operation just four months before.

Some people train four to six months to do a marathon and then on the ’big day’ they lace up their running shoes, do some stretches, and attack the distance. It’s running for love of the sport… the feeling of moving the body through the various mileposts of the challenge. Others, however, get quite technical about both marathon preparation and actually running the distance. They feel that they need to have the latest running gadgets, the most expensive shoes, a 50-features watch, and so much more. I just love the cartoon drawing that Dave Granlund drew of the “Modern Marathoner”.

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

I grew up in Alaska and then moved to Montana in 1984, two locations well known for cold and snowy conditions during the winter season. I’ve run in temperatures as cold as minus twenty-five degrees
(-25°) Fahrenheit — without windchill — and minus forty degrees (-40°) Fahrenheit with windchill. Some winter activities I enjoy are cross country skiing, playing hockey, and of course… running! Yes, I like winter and today marks 80 years since the first winter Olympics took place in the U.S.A. (Lake Placid, New York, 1932).

Medals were awarded in 14 events in 5 sports (7 disciplines): Bobsleigh; Figure skating; Ice hockey; Nordic skiing; Cross-country skiing; Nordic combined; Ski jumping; and, Speed skating. The 1932 Winter Olympics also included events in three demonstration sports; Curling; Sled dog racing; and, Speed skating (women). Athletes from 17 nations competed.

I had the honor of being an Olympic Torchbearer for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah. It was a moment that I’ll always remember. Athletes from 77 nations competed in that games (60 nations more than in 1932). There were 78 events (64 more than in 1932) in 15 disciplines (8 more than in 1932).

During the 17 days of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games I presented a message about the history of the Olympic torch relay to school children through numerous assemblies, and I visited patients in area hospitals – giving others an opportunity to hold the Olympic Torch and experience a piece of history. The Olympic Torch lit up my life in an unexpected way. I was able to meet some wonderful people and share a positive message based on the theme of the 2002 Olympics — which is inscribed on the side of the torch. That theme is “Light The Fire Within” and I was able to challenge young people to think about the abilities they have and how they can best fan those abilities into flame to shine brightly and to make a positive impact in the world.

Two encounters in particular I will never forget. I was visiting hospital patients dressed in the torchbearer uniform and an elderly blind woman in a wheelchair was being taken down a hallway when her assistant stopped pushing the wheelchair and told the elderly woman who I was. The blind woman asked me to kneel down by her and as I did she raised her very old, wrinkled hands up to me. She felt my Olympic jacket and then slid her shaking hands down my arms until she felt the torch in my right hand. She moved her hands up the torch and paused when she reached the crystal top where the flame emits (and no, the torch was not lit at the time!). She smiled and simply said “Thank you… and may God bless.” To see the woman’s face as she felt my clothes and the torch was amazing. It was like she was truly taking in a picture of me completely by her touch. That encounter truly moved me.

Another instance was when I was visiting a 92-year-old gentleman in a hospital bed with his children gathered around. They had seen me in the hallway and invited me in so that their father could meet a ‘real’ torchbearer and see the actual Olympic torch. When I walked in the elderly man was sort of propped up in bed with his head hanging down a bit. They had warned me that he wouldn’t be able to say anything or lift his head. He was very weak and didn’t have much longer to be on this earth with his family. Even before walking in the room I felt the weight that this family was dealing with. I walked in, saw the elderly man, and made my way to his bedside. I introduced myself and reached out and took one of his hands that sat motionless on his stomach. I leaned over and as I did he very lightly gripped my hand. He then started to make a straining sound and his children were a bit concerned and wondered if he was okay. He then started to slowly lift his head and I looked at his daughter who was welling up with tears. She said, “He doesn’t lift his head”. He did indeed lift his head high enough to look at me, my uniform, and to make eye contact. Through the strain of it I couldn’t help but to feel so honored to be standing before this man during his final moments here. His daughter was now crying quietly and I took the old man’s hand and gripped it around the torch. His fingers slowly moved around it a couple of inches in a grasping motion, although just slightly. Together, we held the torch. No words were exchanged, and no words needed to be exchanged. In that moment he was as much a part of the Olympic spirit as anyone. He looked at me, gave a bit of a smile, and lowered his head again as his fingers relaxed. I placed his hand back onto his stomach, told him it was an honor to meet him, and then smiled at his children. His daughter walked into the hallway with me and said that hadn’t lifted his head in the many days he had been in the hospital because it was too painful for him to do so. She said that he must have really wanted to look at me to go through the discomfort he did to lift his head up. With tears in her eyes she gave me a hug and told me that I had just given her father a gift that she will personally always cherish. I walked away from that moment with a memory to last the rest of my life.

In July 2001 the Olympic Committee notified me that I had been chosen to represent the state of Montana during the torch relay across America. Only 5% of all potential Torchbearers considered (210,000 people!) nationwide were ultimately accepted for the 2002 Olympic Torch Relay, and I became a part of that select and honored group. Mitt Romney, president and CEO of the 2002 Olympic Committee, said: “The Torchbearer selection process goes to the heart of the Games theme. There is a fire, a spirit, that burns in all of us, and we looked for the Olympian in everyone. Torchbearers are people from all walks of life who have inspired others, whether an individual or a community. Our intention is that the flame will serve as a catalyst, motivating individuals to strive for excellence and achievement in their lives, affecting positive change in their own communities.” What an honor to be selected for that wonderful event. Wow… has it already been ten years?!

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

I’ve received a few comments in response to my announcement yesterday of planning to do a P.A.C.E. Trek in 2013. Most are highly supportive and encouraging, while just a couple have leaned toward the “hang up the P.A.C.E. running shoes” column. Bottom line is that it is my decision… and mine alone. I created P.A.C.E. Trek and have beaten my body into the ground for the past 6 years to make the running adventures a success. I still feel that I can take more of a beating — from the pavement that is. So, whether you agree with what I do through P.A.C.E. or not, there will be another journey run in 2013 and I will get my trusty support stroller, BOB, ready and tackle the mega-mileage trek.

Stepping away from P.A.C.E. Trek for awhile has been beneficial to me in many ways, but also detrimental. It has been beneficial because my body truly needed to take a year off after logging over 5,000 miles of P.A.C.E. Trek journeys across states and countries. However, it has also been detrimental to take the time away from it because I started to lose a part of myself that I had become so defined with in my life. You see, I have been a runner since the age of 10 when my fifth grade teacher encouraged me to do the sport. In 1985 I ran the marathon distance for the first time by driving my car 13.1 miles, putting a paint line on the road, and then driving back to lace up my running shoes and then run the out and back distance — for a total of 26.2 miles. There was no race, no banner at the finish, no medals, no cheering crowds. Just me and 26.2 miles of pavement. I just wanted to see if I could do the distance. I managed to do it in 3 hours and 55 minutes (not a great time, but decent for a first time solo ‘marathoner’ dealing with an occasional car whizzing by).

In 1986 I attempted the world record for the run across America… and failed. I was only 21 years old and it was a crushing defeat in my running career. Many people in my life knew about that failure and for 20 years they knew it was a dream of mine to run coast to coast, but most doubted I would or could actually do it. Then, at the age of 41, I did indeed run across America — alone — pushing an 80-pound jogging stroller of gear. I averaged 30 miles per day for 108 days through the second hottest summer ever recorded in the USA. It made my first “marathon” seem like a walk in the park.

Since the age of 20 I have been running beyond the marathon distance. I’m now nearly 47. So, for 27 years ultra-endurance running has been synonymous with Paul Staso. It is weaved into my life, my character, my very heart. It is truly a part of what makes me “me”. So, to walk (not run) away from ultra-running after 27 years was detrimental to me because I began to lose a significant part of my identity. Yes, there does come a day to “retire”. However, for the sport that I do I am actually in my prime.

The 40′s and 50′s are quality years for ultra-endurance runners. Studies have shown that ultra athletes in that age range have much more experience, more patience, and more knowledge for being able to conquer large distances — mileage that many novice runners would think is impossible. As an example, Ireland’s 76-year-old Geoff Oliver recently proved that age is no barrier to ultra running when he ran 111 miles in 24 hours (that’s an average of 4.6 miles per hour!). Or how about Björn Suneson, who has run across America twice… in his 60′s!

Below is a television news story that was done in July 2006 during my solo run across the United States. I’m 41 years of age in that video, but I’ve had so many people tell me that I look like a ‘college guy’ in the report. Perhaps running does slow the aging process!

International studies have shown that a 65-year-old person who exercises regularly can bring his or her heart age to that of a 25-year-old who does not exercise as much. When I turn 65 years of age (18 years from now) I plan on having a 25-year-old heart!

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

I realize that it was just a little over 3 months ago that I announced at this blog that there would be no P.A.C.E. Trek in 2012 and that I wasn’t actually certain if I would ever do another P.A.C.E. Trek. Well, today I am happy to announce that I am currently organizing a P.A.C.E. Trek for 2013.

Rather than get into all of the personal and emotional “pushing and pulling” of my heart with respect to matters in my life, I want to focus on what I will be aiming to achieve with next year’s P.A.C.E. Trek. Let me begin by saying that I’ve had to come to terms with the fact that since completing the Mojave Desert solo run on May 1, 2011 I’ve been slowly losing a part of my life by letting go of P.A.C.E. and consciously sidelining myself from my mega-mileage journeys that involve children worldwide. I’m two months away from turning 47 years of age and P.A.C.E. has defined a lot of this decade of my life. I ran across America at age 41; Montana at age 43; Alaska at age 44; Germany at age 44; and the Mojave Desert at age 46. I chose to take 2012 off from running a P.A.C.E. Trek across a state or country, but am definitely planning a P.A.C.E. for 2013 (at age 48) and will begin training later this year.

So, the question I’m sure you — and others – have is “Where will the next P.A.C.E. Trek take place?”  I’m not ready to reveal that yet, but will be doing so in the future at this blog and at www.pacetrek.com. I can tell you that it will truly test my limits of endurance and of course I will be attacking the run completely solo — pushing my 80-pound companion, “BOB“. The next P.A.C.E. Trek will be very educational and have a lot for teachers to use in the classroom. Once again student teams around the world will run with me virtually and be able to track my progress live via my online classroom. It will be an adventure, a quest and an undertaking that will challenge me in many ways. Stay tuned to this blog for future posts about P.A.C.E. Trek 2013.

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

Before getting to the buzzing McDonald’s restaurant book news in the Britain, let me share some news right here in the United States. McDonald’s is reformulating its Happy Meal. It will now automatically include apple slices as a side. In addition to the apple slices, the meal includes a new smaller size order of french fries. Customers who would like to skip the fries can ask for two bags of apples. Research found that although McDonald’s has been offering apple slices for 7 years, the apple option is chosen in only 11 percent of Happy Meal purchases. The new Happy Meal includes 4-piece chicken McNuggets, apple slices, new smaller size french fries and 1 percent low fat white milk or fat-free chocolate milk. Apparently, the new Happy Meal will equal 410 calories and 19 grams of fat, compared to the old version, which had 520 calories and 26 grams of fat.

Many will view that as a positive nutritional step for encouraging healthier youth. However, McDonald’s is encouraging literacy too!

McDonald’s latest Happy Meal promotion in Britain features Mudpuddle Farm books instead of traditional plastic toys. The company plans to give out 9 million Mudpuddle Farm books within the next four weeks, and it has been reported that the Happy Meal book promotion will elevate McDonald’s as the country’s biggest children’s book retailer for a brief amount of time. Unfortunately, McDonald’s has no current plans to roll out books with Happy Meals in the United States.

McDonald’s partnered with publisher Harper Collins for the UK promotion. The new Happy Meal campaign includes six titles from the Mudpuddle Farm range: Mossop’s Last Chance; Albertine, Goose Queen; Pigs Might Fly!; Jigger’s Day Off; Martians at Mudpuddle Farm; and Mum’s the Word. A finger puppet relating to the book series also is included with the offering.

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

I recently received a message from a 3rd grade student. She learned that I was not doing a P.A.C.E. Trek this year and at the end of her brief note she wrote: “Did u die in the Mohahve?” I’ve been thinking about that sweet note of concern and how I should reply. Obviously, my response alone will tell her that I am quite alive. However, it’s clear this little girl has not seen the slideshow of my successful Mojave run in April 2011.

I became the first person to ever run completely alone and unsupported over 500 miles from the Grand Canyon in Arizona to Badwater Basin, Death Valley in California — the lowest, hottest, driest location on the North American continent. It was an extreme journey run and one that ultimately caused two herniated discs in my back due to pushing over 100 pounds of gear, food and water across the desert. I averaged 30 miles per day for 17 days, enduring very harsh conditions… often sleeping in a tent and battling back-breaking headwinds that at times required me to wear ski goggles to protect my eyes from blinding sand. Last autumn I had to go through physical therapy for the damaged discs in my lower spinal column and am taking this year off from a P.A.C.E. Trek to heal completely and refocus after 5 years of constant P.A.C.E. Trek journeys across states and countries.

So, YES! I am alive and well. I certainly miss not planning and preparing for a P.A.C.E. Trek this year and hope to be able to return to the road in 2013 with “BOB” for another adventure. Stay tuned at this blog and at www.pacetrek.com.

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

I recently read the following article online at the Wichita Eagle web site and thought it was worth passing along.

Ten Ways to Keep Your Brain Healthy

Wes Ashford, an Alzheimer’s Disease expert and creator of the consumer memory screening test MemTrax, offers these 10 tips to on keeping your brain healthy:

• Exercise your mind: Education is associated with decreased Alzheimer’s risk. So try taking a class, learning a new language or working math or word puzzles to keep your mind stimulated. There also are personalized brain-train programs, like those at HAPPYneuron (www.HAPPYneuron.com).
• Get physical: Physical exercise is an important part of keeping your mind healthy. Adopt a regular exercise program, incorporating both aerobics and strength training — and don’t forget to stretch.
• Be social: Making and keeping friends has great benefits for your brain. Staying active with friends, getting involved in the community and just enjoying a good conversation are easy, ongoing ways to stimulate your brain.
• Eat right: If your mom told you to eat your veggies and take your vitamins — she was right. Ashford recommends vitamin E, vitamin C and a multi-vitamin with folate and no iron. He also suggests you talk with your doctor about your B-12 level — it should be above 400 — and have your vitamin D level checked.
• Watch your weight: Being in good shape physically helps you mentally, and exercising and eating right can help with both physical and mental health.
• Protect your noggin: Trauma to the head has major effects on your brain, including your memory. Be smart about protecting your head — wear a seat belt in the car and a helmet during any activity in which you could fall. Try exercises that improve your balance as well, one of which is as simple as practicing standing on one foot.
• See your doctor: A variety of other health factors can affect your cognitive health, so it’s important to see your doctor regularly. Consult your physician about any joint or muscle pains, and take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) if they are recommended. Keep your hormones stable; this includes regular monitoring of your thyroid.
• Love your heart: Take your blood pressure regularly — the systolic pressure should always be less than 130, with diastolic blood pressure less than 85. Watch your cholesterol and, if they are recommended, use statins that cross into the brain. If approved by your doctor, take one enteric-coated baby aspirin each day.
• Sleep tight: While physical activity is important, so is rest. Be sure you’re getting enough sleep, and try to keep stress levels under control. Yoga might help. If you have trouble falling asleep, consider trying 3 to 6 milligrams of melatonin at bedtime. If you snore, consult your clinician about sleep apnea.
• Remember your memory: As you get older, monitoring your memory should be another regular to-do item. Have your memory screened regularly after age 60, or use an at-home memory-screening test. Consult a doctor immediately if you find yourself having difficulty with your memory.

This really makes you ‘think’ about your health!

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

Most children in day care don’t get enough exercise, according to a study published earlier this month in Pediatrics, the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Researchers at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center found that children in day care spend only 2 to 3 percent of their time in vigorous physical activities.

“This is particularly concerning, because daily physical activity is not only essential for healthy weight maintenance, but also for practicing and learning fundamental gross motor skills and socioemotional and cognitive skills,” the researchers said.

“Because many of the children were in care for such long hours, there was little free time for outside activities,” the researchers said. “This was particularly the case for parents who worked multiple jobs and/or did not earn sufficient income to afford outside extracurricular activities.”

In its previous issue, Pediatrics published a clinical report on the importance of play in healthy child development. It noted “Play is essential to the social, emotional, cognitive and physical well-being of children. Active play is so central to child development that it should be included in the very definition of childhood.”

Play allows children to be creative, and helps them learn to cooperate, overcome challenges and negotiate with others, the report said. But schools have reduced the time allocated to creative arts and physical education.

“Even afterschool activities have shifted away from play and physical activity and toward being an extension of academics and a space for homework completion,” the clinical report said.

Safety concerns, financial issues and an emphasis on academics are the principal reasons why children in day care get so little exercise, the study concluded. Strict new standards for playground equipment were another obstacle to exercise.

“The new equipment that was safe per these standards soon became boring to the children because they quickly mastered it,” the study said. “Child care playgrounds had been modified to prevent child injury, but the modifications also rendered them less challenging and less interesting for children.”

Day care providers told researchers they felt pressure from parents “to prioritize academic classroom learning over outdoor and active playtime.”

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

On July 9, 1962 President John F. Kennedy wrote the following response to a report prepared by the Council on Youth Fitness. When it comes to the current condition of youth fitness in the U.S., I believe many of his words still ring true 50 years later.

Approximately a year ago, I urged our nation’s schools to strengthen activities that contribute to the physical development of our youth. Specifically, I asked them to adopt programs which were based on the concepts developed by the Council on Youth Fitness. The results of pilot projects and recent surveys covering all our schools — public, private and parochial — have just been reported to me.

These pilot projects and surveys indicate that, at best, one-fourth of our 40 million school children cannot pass even a simple screening test of physical performance. This test is not difficult. It calls for only minimum acceptable levels of strength, flexibility and agility. The Council also recommended the use of comprehensive tests which measure a broader range of physical achievement. The pilot projects and surveys indicate almost half our children cannot reach satisfactory levels in all items of tests of this type.

These statistics are frightening, but it is through this testing activity that the schools proved the value of professional leadership in organized daily programs emphasizing physical fitness.

When the screening test was administered in schools which previously had no organized program, 46 percent of the students failed. This figure compares to only 25 percent failure in schools which previously carried on organized programs of physical education. At the end of the school year the rate of failures was reduced to 11 percent in those schools having no previous programs and only 5 percent in the schools with programs. Similar contrasts were apparent in the results of the more comprehensive tests.

While these figures should be of great concern to us all, they do offer encouragement. The remarkable difference in the rates of failure between schools which previously had programs and those which did not, and the rapid improvement in all schools, clearly indicates the value of daily vigorous activity. These surveys also revealed that testing for physical fitness increased by 24 percent, and the number of schools offering some type of physical fitness program increased by 13 percent.

This is strong evidence that the threat to the strength of young America can be overcome. Yet, the shocking fact remains that at least 60 percent of our children do not participate in a daily program of vigorous physical activity. This conclusively shows how much remains to be done, and this is the critical time of the year. School administrators and teachers are now making their plans. I urge them to implement programs that contribute to the health and well-being of all our girls and boys. I urge school boards, parents and all citizens to support their efforts.

I am aware that many of the governors and chief state school officers share my concern, and have taken positive action that already has produced significant results in their states. This is gratifying to me, as President and as a parent. I am most hopeful everyone will make this a matter of high priority. The progress of the past school year should encourage us all to assure our children the benefits of physical development as well as intellectual growth.

– John F. Kennedy, President of the United States

As I read that I had to remind myself it was written 50 years ago, not today.

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

Hello P.A.C.E. blog followers! I’ve had a few months off from writing here and decided it was time to blow the dust off of this blog, roll up my sleeves, and share my thoughts about all things related to youth health, fitness, nutrition, and of course… P.A.C.E.!

I prefer to stay away from writing blog posts about “childhood obesity.” Rather, I lean toward writing about innovative, fun and effective ways to get kids moving, eating well and adopting healthy habits. We all know there is a global overweight and obesity problem and I did not create this blog to join the thousands, if not millions, of other Web pages addressing that topic. However, I’ll get the typical fact out of the way just in case you’ve missed it while you’ve been running or trudging along the Internet highway.

Nearly 70 percent of adults in the United States are overweight.
One in three is obese.
About half that many kids and teens are considered obese.

Okay, now that I’ve stated the well-known problem I’ll proceed to share in this blog cool and current ideas and strategies being implemented in homes, schools and communities to try and push back the tide of this massive wave of weight.

Here we are in the year 2012. We’re into a new year, but have the same problem. How do we get kids up, active and making healthy choices? This question has been asked countless times for decades. Nutritionists, dietitians, fitness gurus and even guys like me — who run massive distances while pushing a support stroller — have been offering ‘expert’ advice for years in the arena of childhood health and fitness. However, the problem seems to stay as rooted in our society as info commercials on late-night television, political campaign budgets that could purchase a small country, or Barbi dolls of just about ever imaginable type. People around the world are looking down at waist sizes that are a ticking time bomb on their own existence, as well as a growing concern for economies everywhere.

So, what’s the answer? Is there a “magic bullet” to reduce this global flab fest? Sadly, there is not. In my opinion, there needs to be a global mindset change. People need to realize that fast food does not equate to fast nutrition, that sleeping less does not equate to living more, and that walking to the mailbox does not equate to adequate exercise. We need to do away with our fitness excuses and nutritional abuses and take the path less travelled — the path toward personal wellness, intellectual growth, inner happiness, and an “I can” attitude.

No, there is not a “magic bullet” that can be found on a store shelf next to the potato chips, or purchased through an infomercial as you watch late-night TV while eating Ding Dongs. The recipe for solution lies in several commitments, such as: taking control of your unhealthy desires; choosing a positive path in life that will take you in the direction you want to go; identifying quality solutions that match your personal needs; and, surrounding yourself with encouraging people who will hold you accountable. The final ingredient of this recipe is perhaps the most important. You have to have an “I can” attitude. You have to want it, plan it, believe it, and most importantly — DO IT. Remember, no one can change your life for you, and nothing is impossible when it comes to improving yourself. Impossible can be viewed as “I M Possible,” and you indeed are possible. We can only achieve those things in life that we truly believe we are capable of achieving. That’s why ‘I’ is in the middle of belIeve.

Make 2012 the year to change your mindset when it comes to your own health, fitness and nutrition. If you want to change the shape of the world start with the image you see in the mirror. To reduce the worldWIDE, start with a personal reFIT.

After five consecutive years of organizing P.A.C.E. adventures that have seen me through over 5,000 miles of running solo across states and countries, I have made the difficult decision to take 2012 off from doing any P.A.C.E. Treks. There are many factors that I’ve weighed when arriving at this decision.

I am at point where I need time… time away from P.A.C.E. to focus on my own life.

“BOB“, my trusty support stroller, will be boxed up and put into storage. My running in 2012 will be recreational and I hope to fall in love with running again. One thing that many years of P.A.C.E. Trek has done is to make my running so intense and painful that the “joy” of what I do has declined as the years have gone by. The P.A.C.E. Trek I did earlier this year was a grueling 506-mile solo run across the Mojave Desert on a course never done before by a solo runner. That 17-day running adventure was very intense and challenging and required every ounce of strength that I had — and even caused two herniated discs in my spine from pushing the 100+ pound stroller (which was filled primarily with water to see me through the barren desert). That was an “extreme” P.A.C.E. Trek and revealed to me even more the depth of my ability to persevere alone. Having successfully run solo across the Mojave Desert, Germany, United States, Montana and Alaska during the course of the past five years has been very satisfying. However, it’s time for a break.

I have every intention of doing a P.A.C.E. Trek in the spring of 2013; however, that’s 18 months away and I’ll be 48 years old then. We’ll have to see where life’s road has me at that point. For now, I will join the ranks of most recreational long-distance runners and be away from the edge of highways, county roads and unmarked trails while pushing a fully loaded jogging stroller — as I’ve grown accustomed to doing since 2006. It has been a good run and I’ve learned a lot, experienced a lot, and have endured a lot along the way.

Thank you to all who have encouraged me over the years. Without your support P.A.C.E. would have never reached the nearly 70,000 school children who have collectively logged over 326,000 miles through the annual running challenges. For now, “PACE Paul” will be focusing his time and energy on other parts of life. I will, however, still be available for school assemblies and other presentations as invited. It has been an honor to run toward so many horizons with school children worldwide running virtually with me. I’ll never be able to fully put into words the emotions I’ve experienced through P.A.C.E., and I do hope that I’ll reach a point in my personal life when I will unpack the support stroller and step out once again on a running adventure to promote youth health, fitness, goal setting, and chasing after your dreams. It’s a wonderful big blue marble that is spinning beneath our feet and real adventure awaits just outside your door.

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso

BELOW ARE SOME COMMENTS POSTED ABOUT THIS BLOG ENTRY:

“You have done what no human being has probably EVER done and you should be proud of your accomplishments. I can’t imagine impacting the lives of so very many people like you have. You deserve a break to let your body and mind rest for awhile and if you never do another P.A.C.E. trek know that you are an amazing person who will go down in history as one of the premier athletes this world has seen. Yes, I know that’s saying a lot but I believe it sincerely. No one can ever appreciate what your body and mind have gone through but we’re all better off knowing there are people like you who just go for it while the rest of us do not.” – Kathy N.

“I recommend you take a strong look at running for political office either on the state or national level. Your experiences have so much to offer your fellow citizens, and your running experiences will assist you in making strong political decisions that your constituients will respect and understand.  Think about it!” – Delegate Stan Shaver, West Virginia

“I just wanted to write a short note and tell you that you have made a difference in our school, and the major impact was the challenge you made to all of our children to get out and run, walk, and enjoy our beautiful world! You came to Patrick Henry Elementary School when you did your rather “exciting” trek through Germany and children are still talking about it!” – Sue A.

“Well done, Paul. You’ve made a significant and positive difference in the lives of so many people. I’m sure you’ll find ways to continue to do so in the future as well.” – Thomas R.

“I am very sorry to hear of your (temporary, I’m sure) retirement.  I’m sure that was a very difficult decision. Just wanted you to know how special you are to so many and how many lives you have touched.” – Kristen N.

“I so appreciate all you’ve done to encourage active, healthy lifestyles in kids and adults. I’ve found inspiration in your blog ever since I first ran across it back in 2006. I feel honored that I got to meet you along that first solo journey. You have sacrificed greatly for a mission you believe in deeply.” – Amanda F.

“I’ll be missing the PACE updates and enjoying your adventures through the blog and pictures.  That being said, I’m happy that you have chosen to make yourself a priority for a bit.  All that giving and doing for others can take its toll on mind and body. It’s good to take care of you.” – Erin K.

“Even though I know that all good things must come to an end, it’s tough saying good-bye. You have been such an inspiration and fascination. It was so fun to run your treks with you and to feel a part of them (thank you for that!). I will miss them. But I think that you are making a good decision. “There is a time for everything under the sun.” Good luck on your next endeavor. I’m sure there has been some grieving in you as you bring this phase of your life to an end. But it will be exciting to enter the next phase.” – Carolyn G.

“Thank you for getting so many involved in running and seeing our world!!” – Carla L.

“Congratulations Paul on all the TREKS you have accomplished starting with 2006. Wishing you the best for 2012 and finding peace within yourself with this difficult decision. Give BOB a pat from those of us who met you on your first trek.” – Lois H.

“I was saddened to hear that your PACE days are coming to an end. As one who always read the blog, I found your work inspiring (and exhausting).  I am sure that like many others, I didn’t often respond… not taking the time amidst a pile of unrelenting jobs, requests, and phone calls each day. I guess I felt that it would always be available. Now, I feel bad that I didn’t write more about how amazing PACE is. Bless you for all that you have done. I believe that there are a few people in this world who really put themselves on the line to make a difference. You are one of those people. You can look back proudly on all the lives you have touched and motivated. I count myself as one of them. Bless you.” – Kate T.

“You have touched the lives and hearts of thousands of children and adults. You are a motivator, an athlete, a speaker, an educator and an amazing role model. You will continue to touch the lives and hearts of many even if you never run another PACE mile.” – Claire H.

————————————————————————————————————————
P.A.C.E. Trek Site | Facebook Group | Pictures | Videos

Denmark has imposed a “fat tax” on foods such as butter and oil as a way to curb unhealthy eating habits. The tax started earlier this month and is 16 kroner ($2.90US) per kilogram (2.2 pounds) of saturated fat in a product. The tax will increase the price of a burger by around 15 cents and raise the price of a small package of butter by around 40 cents.

The tax was approved by large majority of Denmark’s parliament in March of this year as a move to help increase the average life expectancy of its country’s citizens. Denmark, like some other European countries, already has higher fees on sugar, chocolates and soft drinks, but it is believed that Denmark is the first country to tax fatty foods. The 10-year aim of the fat tax is to increase the average life expectancy of Denmark’s citizens by three years. Why attack fat? Because saturated fats can cause cardiovascular disease and is a risk for cancer.

Denmark is already being closely watched by other countries that may copy the tax. Finland and Romania were quick to indicate they were likely to adopt their own versions of the tax and even Britain’s Prime Minister, David Cameron, reversed his government’s previous stand by saying the tax was worth considering.

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso
————————————————————————————————————————
P.A.C.E. Trek Site | P.A.C.E. Facebook Group | P.A.C.E. Pictures |
P.A.C.E. Videos | P.A.C.E. Foundation

Although George Washington was the first president, he was not the first to live in the White House. At the start of Washington’s term, the capital of the United States was Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The city of Washington, D.C. was declared the nation’s capital in 1790. The cornerstone of the White House was laid on October 13, 1792, and John Adams (the second president) and his wife Abigail moved in eight years later.

So, who placed the first cornerstone of the White House? On this day 219 years ago, a group of Freemasons (a fraternal organization) walked from Georgetown to the White House building site and laid the cornerstone for the building, which included an inscribed brass plate. However, today we don’t know where that cornerstone is. There is only one written account of the event, a letter stating that they laid the cornerstone at the southwest corner. Over the past 50 years, the cornerstone has been sought using many different methods, including high-tech radar equipment — but it has not yet been found.

A “cornerstone” is the first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation and is important since all other stones will be set in reference to this stone. Ultimately, the cornerstone determines the position of the entire structure. I believe there is also a ‘cornerstone’ in the life of each person — a belief that acts as a foundation for their character, actions, reactions and course in life. Have you thought about what the cornerstone is in your life? What’s the firm belief that you hold to that determines the way in which you live your life?

Keep reaching for the mileposts and milestones in life!

Gotta Run, Paul Staso
————————————————————————————————————————
P.A.C.E. Trek Site | P.A.C.E. Facebook Group | P.A.C.E. Pictures |
P.A.C.E. Videos | P.A.C.E. Foundation