Florida summers are all about sun, sand and beach bodies.
There's no better way to get that perfect beach body than with a good run. But for many students whose days are consumed with class and work, little time in the day remains for this luxury.
With the creation of Safe Run, a program started by NROTC, all of that can change. Safe Run allows students to be paired up with a trained NROTC midshipman so they can run safely at night.
According to Midshipman 2/C Ryan Elzie, Safe Run coordinator, Safe Run was originally started by Midshipman 2nd Lt. Brian Prior. Prior started Safe Run with the safety of UF students in mind.
Each NROTC midshipman goes through a training and selection process so they can best suit the needs of every runner.
"Not only does the program allow students to run at night after they are done with obligations, but they also have a built-in running partner to help inspire and encourage," Theresa Linnert, 20, said when asked her opinion of the Safe Run program.
Linnert said that as a runner, she knows how great running can be for the mind and body. Being a student can become overwhelming and, for Linnert, running is the perfect way to stay level-headed.
"Running is important because it relieves stress, gives you more energy and promotes a positive body image," she said.
Like Linnert, many students rely on running to keep themselves mentally healthy, and now they can do so safely.
Many college students have little free time during the day, and with Safe Run, students aren't forced to forfeit good exercise for good grades.
Elzie said the Safe Run program has been around for almost three and a half years.
"Safe Run has had a positive impact, as it has increased the safety among students who run at night while making it a fun, motivational experience," he said.
Students can call Safe Run at 352-577-2RUN and set up a running session any time Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
