Unsolicited Advice: Run the Boardwalk In the Early Afternoon

True running pros know the ideal time to run is in the early morning or at evening. If you avoided a late night or nonetheless can drag yourself out of bed and into running clothes, there are several benefits to getting out there as soon as possible. For two main reasons: one - it's less crowded and, two, it's much cooler.

But here is my counter: part of the appeal of the boardwalk run is to court a little heat. You may not record a personal best and you may not love your decision at the end. But damn if you didn't challenge yourself to excel in less-than-ideal conditions. That, to me, is a beach win.

Onto the crowds. There's something hypnotic about running alongside the masses, many of whom are slowly ambling to and fro their preferred beach location. Again, you will not set any records when you have to move from side to side, but it's energizing to be among the bustle as you're exercising.

Unlike biking - which many towns only prohibit during certain hours - you can always run. And run you should.

• Didn't wake up early enough and feel like you'd rather leave your dash until tomorrow AM? Run.
• Had something else to do in the morning, and are worried about the crowds you will have to navigate? Run.
• Want a leisurely breakfast and a sunset cocktail and figure you have to give up a casual or intense spring? Run.

The boardwalk offers a unique experience of crowds, yet uninterrupted running if you're patient and skilled. It's good at any time of the day, and that includes the most chaotic times.

Of course, you should wear a hat and use sunblock and all the other protections you've probably heard from other people besides the writer of this publication. But you will not have a good time if you fail to protect yourself from the sun. It's the same sun as anywhere else, but it's the lack of shade, not the sand or water that makes it more intense. That's just science!