Sherman's Travel

New York City: This mega-metropolis is world-renowned for its nightlife, shopping, and culture. But the Big Apple also offers plenty of opportunities for big adventure of the adrenaline kind, too. Here, a few suggestions on how to explore the city by climbing, running, and even jet skiiing.

Bouldering in Central Park: Sure, this 843-acre park is the outdoor playground for the city’s active types, and learning how to run, cycle or rollerblade among the constant crowds and cars takes some getting used to. But if you’re up for changing up your routine the next time you’re in this great park, consider bouldering.

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I’ve run three marathons, a half-dozen or so half marathons, and countless 5Ks and 10Ks. Yet the race that people always want to talk to me about is the Fig Leaf 5K.

Held at a nudist resort called Paradise Valley, about an hour north of Atlanta, the Fig Leaf isn’t your ordinary 5K: Participants are encouraged to run naked.

I finished the race (yes, wearing nothing more than my socks and sneakers) and actually came in second in the overall women’s division. And though I doubt I’ll ever do another clothing-optional race, they’re growing in popularity. In fact, according to the American Association on Nude Recreation, nude travel and recreation is now a $400 million a year industry.

A nude or clothing-optional race is a great way to dip your, er, toe into the world of nude travel. At the very least, you’ll have a memorable weekend trip – not to mention a great conversation piece for years to come. Here, a few races to check out – and, believe it or not, you’ll have a T-shirt to show for your bare bravery: Read more

On Friday, July 23, hundreds of athletes will take to the 1,504 stairs of the Sydney Tower, the second-tallest building in Australia, to see how quickly they can reach the top.

No, they’re not taking part in a reverse fire drill. The event, called the Sydney Tower Run-Up, is part of an emerging trend called vertical running or tower running. The setting? The stairwells of some of the world’s tallest buildings, including the Taipei 101, the Empire State Building and the Sydney Tower.

The effort involved is grueling – the Taipei race, for example, means climbing 2,046 steps – but brief. In Sydney, the average finish time is 15 minutes, though whoever reaches the top the fastest will win an impressive $25,000 prize.

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Spring is officially upon us, and although there’s still time to squeeze in some skiing, the running trails are starting to beckon, too. Lace up the sneaks and get back into form with these spring races in happening cities. Bring a buddy and make a weekend out of it, before temperatures soar and summer travel season kicks into high gear. Here are three winning options:

The City: Cincinnati
The Race: The Flying Pig, May 2
Pardon the pig metaphors, but you’re sure to squeal with delight over this race, which offers 5K, 10K and full marathon distances. Cincinnati goes hog wild for the event, with volunteers – called grunts – at every few feet of the course, which features panoramic views of the city. (And if that’s not enough motivation, there are 50 entertainment acts.) At the “finish swine” a mascot greets runners, all of whom get a double-sided flying pig medal.
Training Tip: Not quite brave enough to do a practice run with pig ears? Purchase other pig paraphernalia at the Flying Pig Store.
Travel Tip: The race website offers several online-only discounts until April 2.

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