Meet a Health Hero: Bob Schwelm

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Name: Bob Schwelm

Occupation: Co-owner, Bryn Mawr Running Company, and organizer of several charity races throughout the year.

Who or what motivates you to be healthy?

I still enjoy competing and enter road races throughout the year. I was ranked #1 in the world for 50 years and older in 2009. I own three running show stores and need to practice what I preach. (You can’t be fat when you tell people how great running is!)

Describe a health- or fitness-related turning point in your life.

My first real marathon was the 1983 Boston Marathon and I ran 2:22:37—I knew then I could be pretty good.

What “policy” would you institute to make Philadelphia a healthier city?

Everyone would be obligated to run or walk one charity race a year. If they can’t do that physically, then volunteer!

What’s the most important part of your health or fitness regimen?

Consistency. I run every day. Some easy, some hard, a lot with my dog on trails, some with other people, some with an iPod, some in heat, some in snow and rain. After every run, I am thankful I can still do it!

What is your No. 1 piece of health-related advice or encouragement?

Again, consistency. The more you do anything, the better you will get—whether golf, darts, whatever. If you want to get better at running, just run more!