Every elementary school student in the world knows how to run, but to Orem resident Ken "Hawk" Harper, running is a science, an art and a passion.

Harper and his wife are co-owners of Runner's Corner, a specialty gear store in the Lifestyles 2000 Fitness Center at the corner of 800 S. and State Street in Orem. For 11 years they have been providing equipment to both novice and experienced runners, including socks, reflective gear, pedometers, watches, sunglasses, insoles, water bottles, apparel and more than 150 models of men's and women's running shoes.

Harper also offers customers advice on proper fitting shoes, running posture and other aspects of the sport. He helps customers adjust lacing on their shoes for the most comfortable fit and works with them to find the best possible equipment for their needs.

"We don't try to sell shoes, we try to counsel people so they get a feel for what works and what doesn't," Harper said. "The best shoe is not necessarily the most expensive."

One of the biggest problems Harper sees with running shoes is people wearing the wrong size. According to Harper, most people buy shoes too small but runners need room for the foot to spread out and relax.

"You need to let your foot be itself," he said.

Harper began running 30 years ago, and when he celebrates his 60th birthday this year he will have competed in more than 70 marathons. He currently runs from 70-75 miles per week.

Harper believes that running is beneficial on many different levels and can help improve an individual's quality of life far more than just as exercise.

"Because you run, you have to watch other habits that would be bad like smoking and drinking," he said.

According to Harper, running also promotes honesty and integrity because it is an open sport that depends solely on the individual's performance.

"Runners are the best people in the world," he said.

Harper's recommendation for beginning runners is to vary their routine and keep their runs interesting and enjoyable.

The biggest challenge Harper has discovered with operating a specialty running store is having enough space to carry an adequate inventory. He has found that everyone's needs are so different, no one type of shoe can accommodate every runner.

Rather than expand, however, Harper prefers to keep his business small and hands-on in order to give personal attention to each customer.

According to Harper, a typical running shoe will last from 300-500 miles if it is cared for properly.

He said that runners should trade off different pairs of shoes in order to allow each one to rest and regain resiliency for the best fit and performance.

To help his customers' shoes stay in great condition, each pair is treated with a waterproof stain guard before leaving the store.