From Coach Toby…….

It’s SF Stairway Month which means there’s no better time to run up and down San Francisco’s famous staircases. This week’s Wildcard takes us up one of the grandest, the Pemberton Steps!

Meetup
7th Ave and MLK Jr Drive, Golden Gate Park

Workout Type: Hill/Stairs

Benefits: builds leg and core strength and power, cardiovascular endurance, mental toughness

Warm-Up 

Easy group jog + dynamic stretches

Strava Route

https://www.strava.com/routes/3415175046688933568

What to Expect: This is a solid workout that anyone can do — and every runner should do. The route climbs steadily over the first 2 miles before reaching the Pemberton Steps, a sequence of three separate staircases that will get your heart rate up fast. Watch your footing as some sections are still cobblestone.The back half descends Clarendon and then begins to flatten out as we return to the park via 7th Avenue. 

Social: We’ll segue to The Little Shamrock (807 Lincoln Way) after the run. No stairs, but a great place to enjoy a pint and good conversation. Outside food welcome, and plenty of spots close by. Cash only, bring your ID.

Explore: If you’re inspired to find more of the city’s hidden stairways, check out my friend Alexandra Kenin, founder of Urban Hiker SF. She’s documented more than 900 stairways on her SF Stairway Project Map, a resource that has helped me with my own SF City Streets Project and led me to countless new corners of the city.

Looking forward to tackling the steps with you! And thanks for showing up. Every time you do, it strengthens your running, your consistency, and our Run Club community. ~ Toby