I've got the runs!

No, I don't. But I bet it caught your attention (that's one way to drive up page views).

Actually, I've got the "walks," though that's not really a noun. One nice thing about my break from the working world is an opportunity to go out for routine walks. Before, it was too early in the morning, I was too tired after work, or there were weekend plans.

Now, it's just too hot. But "duh" - it's summer, and it's Texas.

And when you're a few (OK, several) pounds overweight, have free time and want to enjoy the fresh air, there's nothing like a nice walk to get the blood flowing.

The first few times, I was unprepared, and it showed - out of breath, dehydrated and sunburned. Eventually, I developed a checklist that seems to take longer than the walk itself:

• Shorts, short-sleeved shirt, socks, running shoes and hat? Check.
• SPF 50 sunscreen for the face and neck? Check.
• Icy Hot® for the legs? Check.
• Aquaphor for the feet? Check.
• Bottled water? Check.
• iPhone with cool Ironman headphones? Check.

And we're off. Nothing like a good sweat, seeing the wildlife and enjoying some tunes. Also nothing like tall weeds, heavy traffic and landscapers everywhere.

Oh, and nothing like knots in your calves. Even with all my preparations, I still come down with 'em. In fact, I'm typing this blog now as I'm between massages with a roller. Talk about pure heaven.

Thankfully, I do feel better, and I may have even lost a few pounds (don't make me check the scale). This "torture," er exercise, also has reaffirmed my respect and admiration for runners and walkers.

My father-in-law, Eloy Rodriguez, competed in several marathons from the 1980s to the early 2000s, including the Chicago Marathon. He even walked a full marathon in Alaska at age 71.

Father-in-law (third from right in group shot) completed the Mayor's Marathon in Alaska in June 2010 at age 71.

My wife, Erica Rodriguez Maier, participated in a few races of her own, including the prestigious New York City Marathon. She also served as a local running coach here in Bryan-College Station, mentoring both newbie and experienced runners.

That's my better half completing the 2010 New York City Marathon.

I know of many other family, like Jacob Allenstein, and friends, like Steve King, who love running - so much that some are even training for or actually indulging in ultramarathons. Seriously?! Seriously?!

Not me. As long as I get my 2+ mile walk in a few times a week, I'm a happy camper. Nope. I'll be on the sidelines cheering as they push for new PRs (that's "personal record" in running-speak).

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to drink some coconut water and continue to roll out these knotted calves. Til the next time...