San Francisco is a great place. Weekend car traffic is usually not awful, the exceptions being certain neighborhoods and big events. Public transit is good and reliable. It's a good place to walk and is cycling friendly. On a quiet Sunday morning walkers, runners, and cyclists are out for exercise as well as for getting to a favorite cafe or meeting spot.
What struck me today on my walk to the Hyde Street Pier is just how good everyone looks running down hill. From my spot in Nob Hill, Hyde Street is downhill all the way. Being a walker has its advantages. You get to take in the sights, sounds, and smells. The slow pace allows for a certain immersion in being present. There's no rush.
There are baby strollers, dogs on leashes, elderly folks, panhandlers, and tourists. There are also lots of young, fit, fast runners. At least, they're fast going toward the Bay. They sort of just blow right by heading in that direction, their faces all smiles, the conversation with running partners lively and brisk. Once they get down to the Bay, they coast along the flats soaking up the sun and the cool breeze. Everyone looks great.
Seeing the runners headed back up the hills from the Bay is a different story. Grimaces often replace smiles. Heavy breathing replaces cheerful conversation. The running partner may be back a few paces, struggling to keep up.
It's easy to look good going downhill. How do you handle going uphill?
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