Charlottetown's newest fitness store is opening today. Running Room, at 60 University Ave., sells running shoes and apparel and offers training programs.
John Stanton, founder of the Running Room, gave a presentation at the Rodd Charlottetown this morning to promote the store, exercise and a run/walk to raise money for the IWK children's hospital.
Stanton said he used to be a couch potato until he got into running in 1981. Running is difficult at first, he said, but people continue as they see themselves becoming stronger.
“Exercise is not arduous, it’s fun," said Stanton, who has written six books on running and walking.
He suggests people start by walking, because it has all the benefits ofrunning with less chance of injury. Some people want to get their exercise faster, so they start running, he said.
“Others say, ‘No, I like this walking.’”
Fear of embarrassment also holds people back, Stanton said. Running Room’s philosophy is social and groups don’t think of ridiculing others, he said.
“It’s just a group out for a run.”
A 2.5 km walk/5 km run will be held at 6 p.m. tonight to raise money for the IWK Health Centre Foundation as part of Running Room's grand opening event. The registration fee is $10 and all proceeds go to the children's hospital. Contact 892-6159 or email charlottetown@runningroom.com to take part.
