Next Step Running

Next Step Running is a resource for running information created by Rich Dafter. I have been a runner for almost 57 years and now live and train in Albuquerque, NM. I started running on September 1st, 1966, and love running as much now as I ever have, if not more. I feel like I still have more to accomplish as a runner and to give back to the running community.

"The race is not always to the swift, but to those who keep on running." Unknown

This site's name comes from a running club that was formed when a friend and I created the Next Step Racing Team in Martinsville, NJ. When I moved to New Mexico and started a mid school running club, it became the Next Step Running Club. The About page is somewhat like the original site for that team. As well as running and coaching runners, I have been a full time BODi Coach since January 8th, 2007.

Running Resources, Tools, Information, and Updates

I Train with Polar Heart Rate Monitors for Running

I have been using Polar heart rate monitors since August 5th, 1986 when I bought the Polar Vantage XL using part of the settlement money from a bad car accident that I had and which left me unable to run like I had been running. Polar’s GPS running watches don't only measure your heart rate and calculate your running pace and distance automatically – they're packed with smart features that help you see your progress and stay motivated. All you need to take care of is the best part - the hard work itself. I am currently training with the Polar Vantage V2 and wearing a Polar Vantage V.Shop now for great deals on Polar watches, transmitters and accessories on Amazon.

Rich Dafter on Strava and Instagram

I have been using Strava for over six years. If you would like to follow each other, click here. My Team Howtobefit Club on Strava is a multidiscipline club that you are welcome to join. You can also follow me on Instagram by clicking here.

Running News on Social Media

I find running news from across the web and share it to the Next Step Running group on Facebook.

Running Resources on the Internet

Polar Running - Whether you're a seasoned marathoner, enthusiastic trail runner, or a beginner starting to train for your first 5K, these running tips, tricks and tools will help you get ready, set… run (and cross the finish line)!
Runner's World - Running news, training advice, inspiring stories, running shoe reviews, gear tips, and more.
Trailrunner.com - The American Trail Running Association, ATRA, was formed in mid-1996 as a Colorado not for profit corporation to serve the mountain, ultra & trail (MUT) running community.
Ultrarunning Magazine - Serving a loyal market of long-distance runners since 1981, UltraRunning magazine has long been established as “the voice of the sport”.
Womensrunning.com - Women's Running focuses on providing editorial content focused on running, fitness, nutrition, and wellness to the ever-growing community of women runners.
Womensrunnng.co UK - Women’s Running is your dedicated running coach, whether you're embarking on your fifth marathon or you’re lacing up your trainers for the first time.
No Meat Athlete - No Meat Athlete is about giving you tools, not preaching. We're all about training tips, recipes, advice on how to transition, and the occasional dose of inspiration.
RunSociety - From one runner to another, to many: RunSociety, Asia's leading running magazine.
MapMyRun Blog - MapMyRun is part of the world's largest digital health and fitness community, Under Armour Connected Fitness. Improve your overall health and fitness with our family of apps.
The Manual - The Manual is simple — we show men how to live a life that is more engaged. Whether it be fashion, food, drink, travel, grooming, or the outdoors, we bring authenticity and understanding to it all.