The Long Run

SUN 3/27

Running is tough, especially at first. Footfall after footfall, your lungs ache, your legs complain, and your hands swell up in a most irritating way. But do it for a while, and the sport begins to make sense. You learn to manage puffy paws, your lungs start to pump all the oxygen you need, and best of all, your feet feel strong and sure on the ground.

So at the Dolphin South End Runners' 2.92-mile Easter Roller Coaster Run, don't dash to lose weight or to be healthy or for any of those boring rationales. Do it for the same reason you eat a chocolate bunny: It feels good. Today's event also includes a kids' run -- just don't substitute the athletics for the candy. The race is on at 9 a.m. (registration begins at 8:15 a.m.) at Mountain Lake Park, 12th Avenue & Lake, S.F. Registration is $3-5; call 978-0837 or visit www.dserunners.com.
-- Hiya Swanhuyser

Swamp Thing

SAT 3/26

The benefits of swamps go beyond being the favored habitat of famous monsters. Take a walking tour of the city's beautiful bogs at "Wetland in Your Backyard," at 1 p.m. at the Crissy Field Center, 603 Mason (at Halleck), S.F. Admission is $15; call 561-7752 or visit www.crissyfield.org.
-- Jane Tunks

My Foot!

THU 3/24

As spring approaches, it's time to take advantage of the city's walkability. One option is the wide range of comedian-led strolls offered by Foot! Tours. We're particularly fond of "Nude, Lewd and Crude," a look at North Beach strippers, comedians, and Beats, tonight at 6 at Vesuvio, 255 Columbus (at Jack Kerouac), S.F. Participation is $12-30; call 793-5378 or visit www.foottours.com.
-- Hiya Swanhuyser