Pace Setter : October 2024

Out of Town Running

 

Riverfront Park in Springfield, MA - Photo courtesy of Benita Zahn

Being out of town doesn’t have to mean being out of your running routine. In fact, it’s an opportunity to add some spice to your running. Let’s face it, when we’re home we tend to run the same routes over and again. When you’re away from home you get an opportunity to explore. That’s just what I’m doing this autumn as I’m performing at the Majestic Theater in West Springfield, MA.  And by the way, Springfield, MA is home to the Basketball Hall of Fame and the MGM Casino, two locations Capital Region runners may find attractive to visit for only a short hour and half drive away.

Outside of the Springfield Museum - Photo courtesy of Benita Zahn

Turns out this ‘neck of the woods’ has some fabulous bike paths and trails. To be clear, as a woman, I won’t run any of these by myself. Fortunately, I have housemates who are always ready to head out. The Mittineague Park ( Mittineague Park - Town of West Springfield )is a short drive from where we’re staying and I highly recommend this spot for a run and if you want to get some upper body workout in then there are two playgrounds that provide ‘chin up’ opportunities.  There are paved and trail routes. There are also ample porta potties. 

Another lovely spot to stretch your legs is the Ashley Reservoir in nearby Holyoke, MA (Ashley Reservoir Trail, Massachusetts - 1,834 Reviews, Map | AllTrails) It boasts paved and gravel paths, mostly flat with bucolic views of the reservoir. Porta potties are situated throughout the routes you’ll explore. 

Running along crushed cinders at the Ashley Reservoir in Massachusetts - Photo courtesy of Benita Zahn

You might also like to check out the Bear Hole Reservoir (530 Bear Hole Rd, West Springfield, MA 01089-1615 ). I’ve yet to hit that one but I’m told it’s lovely and parking is a breeze. 

In Springfield you’ll find the Riverfront Park. It runs along the Connecticut River and the train tracks. It’s flat, treed and there’s convenient parking. You’ll get a glimpse of the Basketball Hall of Fame and there are info signs along the way providing a snippet of local history. There’s also a unique  bridge that crosses the train tracks. (River Walk (springfield-ma.gov)) 

Along the Riverfront Bike Path in Springfield, MA - Photo courtesy of Benita Zahn

I also Googled for other routes and found one for a run/walk tour of downtown Springfield. However, it’s poorly designed and with construction going on near the Mass Mutual Center I found it too tough to use, so I only navigated sections of it. I also recommend running / walking up State Street- it’s a heck of a hill! You’ll pass the armory, Dr. Seuss museum and if you keep going past Walnut Street you’ll see the old, stately homes. 

As always, check out running stores where you visit. Most stores will host running groups and post race calendars. Alas, with my performance schedule I won’t have the opportunity to join these local groups. Strava, if you use that app, may also help connect you with local runners.

I’m still exploring and having fun doing so. No chance for boredom! And if you’re in town c’mon over and see SHEAR MADNESS at the Majestic Theater (MAJESTIC THEATER)

Dr. Benita Zahn is a certified Health and Wellness Coach working with clients at Capital Cardiology Associates. Benita spent more than 40 years as a health reporter and news anchor at WNYT in Albany, NY. She covered issues such as wellness, treatment breakthroughs, aging, nutrition, and the latest health care trends. Benita’s work has taken her around the world and across the USA. Benita is a contributor to the weekly “Live Smart” page in the Times Union, the HMRRC Pace Setter and the new magazine 55+LIVING. Benita also created and co-hosts the podcast EVERYTHING THEATER