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My whole life, I've been a runner. When I was growing up in Reno, Nevada, I'd run for hours out on the trails amongst the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. When I was living in San Francisco, I'd sprint (OK, attempt to sprint) up the many hills of Pacific Heights. And now that I'm living in New York, I run along the Hudson River pretty much every morning toward One World Trade Center.

Of course, this doesn't mean I don't have my handful of other favorite running haunts here in the city, which is why I'm excited to share today's video. I often get emails from readers who are visiting New York and need several good running paths to map out for their trip. Typically, their email comes with a hint of desperation though, as if they're half expecting my answer to be, "Running in New York? Go find an Equinox!"

And while, don't me wrong, I love a good Equinox just as much as the next downtown living, green-smoothie chugging girl but sometimes, the best way to really experience a new city, is to get out in it...and sweat a little. So whether you live in the city or perhaps visiting soon, here are a few of my go-to running spots in New York, with a video to go along with it!

1. Hudson River: My morning jam. Perfect anytime of day though, completely paved, dedicated running path -- I personally love running south on it, toward One World. Such a great view and reminder that you're in NEW YORK!
2. Brooklyn Bridge: For your best run, I'd say carve out time for the Brooklyn Bridge if you can make it around 5:30/6am. You'll have far less tourists and the sunrise is spectacular. Just watch out for bicyclists -- they can get really aggressive if you step foot in their lane.
3. Williamsburg Bridge: Between the two bridges, the Williamsburg is easier for runners as it's not typically crowded with tourists. Plus, the incline at each end is pretty decent if you're looking to practice some slow and steady hills.
4. Central Park, Jackie O Reservoir: This will make you feel like you're running in every movie or show that had a main character who liked to run (Charlotte York anyone?), and there's a reason for it. It's just stunning. I like heading here when I'm deep in marathon training because it's basically a running track. It's 1.58 miles around and I'll just tune out and do laps for a couple hours.
5. 5th Avenue, Museum Mile: I do this run more often during the summer if I happen to head to the reservoir early enough before the tourists. It's a beautiful run if you're looking to take in some amazing architecture along the way, between the amazing apartment buildings on one side and museum after museum on the other.

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Photos and video by Eythan Maidhof