A professor’s race to raise $5,500 for the Canadian Diabetes Association is being helped by Running for Beginners, a new clinic at Algonquin which promotes an active lifestyle.

The eight-week workshop, which started Sept. 20 and runs until Nov. 8, meets every Tuesday between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. for a brief chat followed by a 20-minute run. The clinic is designed for those who have little or no previous running experience and staff and students are encouraged to participate.

Currently, there are 11 registered members and Jayne Van Dusen is happy with the turnout. “It is nice to have a small intimate group with different levels of experience,” said Advertising professor Van Dusen.

Each week throughout the clinic, Van Dusen discusses a different aspect of running such as stretching, cross training and motivation. She has already raised $4,500 and the running clinic will only help to achieve her mark for Team Diabetes, which is linked to her goal of running the marathon in Rome. Van Dusen is asking participants to donate $40. The money supports awareness of diabetes and promotion of a healthy way of life.

Cathy Kenney, a faculty member in the school of design, joined Running for Beginners “after watching (Van Dusen’s) journey into physical fitness.” Kenney, who has known Van Dusen for years, likes the idea of a group run based on different levels of fitness. Kenney admits her goal towards good physical fitness has not been an easy one.

“I experienced brief pain inducement after running,” admitted Kenney. “It felt like seven hours of running.” Kenney credits Van Dusen’s guidance for building her endurance. “Jayne has the most pleasant demeanor,” said Kenney. “She has the ability to build confidence.” Kenney claims to be at the back of the pack during the runs but keeps motivated by Van Dusen.

“She doesn’t let you worry about the rocket at the front,” said Kenney.
“I completely trust her.”