For the past two years local running stores and clubs have been meeting once a month to share ideas and to promote running activities in the area. Running specialty stores have become the backbone for the running community. Michigan has more running specialty shops than any other state.
Running stores are no longer just outlets to buy equipment. They have become a gathering place for runners to meet for group runs, get expert advice and pick up entry forms. They also hold training classes and organize races at their locations. All of them sponsor, promote and put on races. A solid volunteer base to work these events is encouraged through the stores.
Clientele tend to be loyal and they often develop relationships with the store managers and some of their long time employees who are often runners themselves. Rarely do you see running stores go out of business, a number of them have expanded throughout Michigan. While there may be some competition between them more often you find that they support one another and will even send callers to a competing store that is closer to the customer.
Hanson’s Running Shop has four stores and boasts one of the premier elite running programs in the nation. Windsor’s Running Factory has weekly running runs along a beautiful stretch of bike path that overlooks Belle Isle. Bauman's in Flint actually started from Mark Bauman's garage and the store is still on its original site that opened in 1977. Running Fit, in operation for almost seventeen years, puts on several big events including this weekend's Michigan Trail Marathon.
New runners and walkers are sometimes intimidated by these specialty shops believing that they need to be a sinewy athlete to enter the door or that prices will be higher than the big sporting goods stores. A good look at marathon finishers would change this perception. Some races have added Clydesdale and Athena divisions to encourage bigger athletes. Running shoe prices are often competitive including against discount catalogues because their customers are usually very knowledgeable about prices. Customers also expect a much wide selection of brands.
For many of the storeowners a hobby became their avocation and the business supports their hobby. Beginning runners stand to benefit the most from coming into these stores. They soon loose the intimidating feeling when employees speak to them in layman terms about what shoe is right for them. Some regulars just hang out in the stores for hours discussing places to workout and where they plan to race next. Hanson's customers will come out to weekly track practices to watch elites practice as they themselves workout. At races supporters develop a great sense of pride about having a personal connection to the stars and heroes of tomorrow. "There is a wonderful sense of support of the running community" according to Heath's assessment of what runners think of their programs.
FYI: Marathon and Beyond Magazine, available at running stores, features the Detroit Free Press/Flagstar Bank International Marathon in their newest issue.
Tip of the Week: Find shoes and clothing that fit well and experiment with what works for you during workouts before you try them out in a race.
Race of the Week: Coming up on May 6th the 22nd Annual Burns Park 5km and 10km Run in Ann Arbor at 8:30am. Early entry is only $10 by calling Mary Jo Desprez at 734 665-4347 or email at
