There's a song, "Walkin' in L.A." by Missing
Persons, that includes the line "nobody walks in L.A." and though that
may be true as a pejorative, one could also take it to mean that no one walks
because so many are running. (Really, go for a drive: you're bound to see some
joggers.)
Jokes aside, Los Angeles is a wonderful city for runners and
racers, whether you're a marathoner or a just an endorphin-craving hobbyist.
The weather's great, the terrain is mixed, and, if you like to compete, there's
always a race coming up, from 5Ks to marathons.
Gotta run? These resources for runners will help you maintain that runner's high all year long
As for where to run:
California Coastal Trail:
Let other cities have their lakefront paths. Here in Los
Angeles, we have an oceanfront one. This 22-mile beachfront trail is accessible
throughout the southern part of Los Angeles. You get the ocean air, a paved
path, and lots to look at. The run from Venice Beach to Santa Monica (enter off
the pier, where there's parking nearby) in particular affords plenty of
people-watching (always a nice distraction when you're trying not to think
about how many miles you have left). One tip: on weekends, the trail and nearby
parking fill up, so if you don't make it before 10 a.m. you may want to go
elsewhere.
Rose Bowl Loop:
Chances are, you've been to the Rose Bowl for something,
whether a football game or its infamous flea market. But, if you don't live in
Pasadena, perhaps you didn't know there are places beyond the parking lot to
really hoof it. A three-mile portion of the 22-mile Arroyo Seco trail system,
the Rose Bowl Loop is most popular with runners and joggers, and offers amazing
views of the Central Arroyo. The route circles the stadium and features colored
pavement to keep foot and bike traffic separate.
Iva-Marie Palmer contributes to a
number of websites and is the author of two young-adult novels, 'The End of the World As We Know It'
(Alloy Entertainment/Hot Key Books) and 'The Summers'
(Skyscape). She loves tasting her way through markets, exploring unique book
stores and libraries, and weekends around Los Angeles with her husband and two
sons. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @ivamarie.