Looking down at my feet, I recalled my decision to wear the flat, grey futsal (indoor soccer) shoes when participating in a running event being held on Kuta Beach that day.

I was fully aware that they were not really designed for the purpose, but wore them anyway because I figured the reduced traction from the beachs sand would render even the most advanced running shoes meaningless.

However, shortly after the sirens blared and I joined the rushing wave of people, I realized that my shoes were probably the least of my worries.

Instead, I should have asked myself whether or not I had the stamina to runthree kilometers straight.

I hardly have a steady running habit and I found the 3K Beach Fun Run held by the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort to be quite challenging. But those looking for a chance to stay in shape may find that it is just the right thing for them.

In general, Bali is a good place for runners. It is blessed with plenty of lovely beaches, which can be a fun alternative to the usual concrete jogging tracks. What's more is that people are eager to participate in running events, if you ever long for a more communal exercise.

Look no further than the well-known beaches in Bali for your running route: Kuta, Jimbaran, Seminyak, Sanur and Nusa Dua each offer at leastthree kilometers stretches for running complete with picturesque scenery.

The noticeable thing when running on sand is that you have a less stable surface beneath your feet. After a short run, you will notice how covering a certain distance requires more effort than when you run on solid surfaces giving you a sense of frustration not unlike when you try to run in water.

This problem can be minimized by running closer to the shoreline. Areas that have been washed by the waves attain a hardened texture, making it easier to run on. But do pay attention to the waves coming to shore and avoid them; squelchy, wet shoes are hardly the most pleasant things for your feet. Come to the beaches before 10 a.m. and you will find plenty of other runners in the area, ranging from serious runners in proper gear to the elderly, running barefoot in casual attire.

Late in the afternoon is another good time to run, but by then these beaches are usually crowded with tourists and you will likely have to practice plenty of dodging and sharp-turn maneuvers.

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Running with the gods on the beaches of Bali