Running
FIRST
New institute takes a scientific approach to running
Bill Pierce has competed in more than 30 marathons, is an expert on the impact of aging on running and is chair of Furman's Department of Health and Exercise Science.
Scott Murr, a nine-time Ironman triathlete, is director of the Furman Fitness Center and competes in more than 15 races each year.
So it's no surprise that runners - from weekend pavement-pounders to world-class athletes - often turn to them for training advice. What's the best diet for runners? Can I train too much? What can I do to prevent injury?
For years, Pierce and Murr have counseled runners. As the number of requests grew last year, Murr, Pierce, HES professor Ray Moss and Mickey McCauley, a personal trainer and PAC employee, decided to formalize a plan that they had been knocking around for years: the Furman Institute of Running & Scientific Training (FIRST).
A comprehensive education and training program, FIRST was launched this month with the first of 12 lectures that will cover everything from basic training techniques to biomechanics. The lecture series will conclude December 8. Services offered through FIRST include laboratory studies to measure lactate levels, oxygen consumption and body fat.
Murr, Pierce, Moss and McCauley will also develop individualized training programs to help runners improve their mechanics and time performance.
"A big issue that runners face is that they often just run with no plan or purpose," says Murr. "If they really want to improve their performance they need to take a scientific approach to their training. Each run should have a purpose."
Murr also says many runners over-train. Running too often and at distances too great may cause injury and hurt race-day performance. The 12 lectures are free and open to the public. FIRST lab testing ranges from $35 to $125. Other services range from $35 to $75.
"The fees really just cover the laboratory costs," says Murr. "We really see this as providing a service to the Upstate running community."
For more information about FIRST, pick up a brochure at the Furman Fitness Center or see the FIRST Web site.
Inside Furman is published monthly during the school year by the Furman University Department of Marketing and Public Relations. For story ideas, e-mail John Roberts, editor.
