Frankly, I was taken back by the anti-jogging sentiment, which comes from a lack of courtesy by some who run on public streets. I, the only jogger present, was also the only person who did not believe that there should be laws forcing us to get our exercise only on tracks.

I tried to explain that this would not work very well because:

1. Sticking to level ground works only certain muscle groups. Your body gets a better workout by varying the terrain and the wind conditions.

2. Running laps gets very difficult mentally due to the sheer monotony. I cannot stand much more than 4 or 5 miles.

3. Are we supposed to quit jogging every winter? Most tracks are snowed over and are often locked after dark, making them inaccessible during the work week.

Since one of the men had nearly killed a thoughtless runner only weeks before, my points did not gain much sympathy.

Before the public sentiment reaches the breaking point, I would urge anyone reading this to take the following suggestions to heart:

1. Use the streets only as a last resort. From April through November, there is no reason to be running on Burncoat St., except to occasionally get around a pedestrian with a dog. The sidewalks are fine.

2. If the sidewalk is obstructed (by snow, pedestrians, a poorly parked car, etc.) or poorly maintained, use the street just long enough to get past the obstruction.

3. Whenever possible, try to jog when traffic is light.

4. If all or part of your workout must be done after dark, help the drivers out. Wear at least some light colored clothes, as well as a reflector vest. Also carry a small flashlight. Keep track of where the cars are. As soon as one approaches, turn your flashlight on and wave it so the driver knows you're there. Do not keep it on the entire workout or you will go through batteries very fast.

5. Do not go out during a snowstorm. If you go out shortly afterward, drive the route ahead of time and choose a course where the snow removal is complete so that you do not interfere with the plow crews.

6. If you are at an intersection or cannot jog around heavy traffic, stop and walk until you can again run safely. I realize it is annoying to break your stride, but a few seconds won't kill you; jogging dangerously just might!

7. Remember that you are fighting an uphill battle to gain the understanding of the public at large. If a driver should say some choice words or make nasty getures, do not swallow the bait by responding in kind. Smile and continue on your way if possible. If he has made a valid point, take it to heart. If you must respond, do it in a respectful way. Above all, do not make any snide references to the other person's body build. I know of an instance where a jogger said to an irate, heavy-set snow plow driver, "Sorry to get in your way, but I don't want to end up looking like you!" Such a remark was not only mean-spirited, it was also based on ignorance. The driver's weight stems from a medical condition he contracted in Viet Nam! Remember, the roads were built for the cars, not the runners.

Act like you are a guest and show the proper respect for you hosts, the drivers.

I was taken aback by the anti-jogging sentiment

Use the streets only as a last resort.