Runners in the magazine are 'fitness models' and not necessarily real runners.

To get the reality of a runner's physique, the best place to to start is a race! Of course there are many 'picture-perfect' runners, some you even know, but they don't equate to the masses.

At a local race our even a national marathon you will see overweight runners, skinny-fat runners and even a few running skeletons, but there will be very few runners with perky bottoms and a six-pack. Why? Because running doesn’t sculpt and tone muscle like people think. In fact the constant pounding motion of running breaks down muscle! A runner’s body is more concerned about going the distance and running as efficiently as possible so many shy away from weight training, because while muscle will increase metabolism it also weighs more.

That isn't to suggest that heavier runners don 't train as hard; they sometimes train harder. Genetics are a contributor as well as overall lifestyle. I have participated in many races where I was stunned on how quickly a runner much larger than myself could get to the finish line before me. It all comes down to the ever-nagging habit we have of comparing ourselves. Rather than compare yourself to those 'elite runners,' realize that in comparison to the population, you are running and they are not!

Dawn Ciccone