Walking on a treadmill is not in any shape or manner the equivalent of a walk in the sun!

As spring gracefully eases into summer, the opportunities increase for a good old fashioned journey on foot. We can drive to Jones Beach, park the car and view the waves as we hike the boardwalk. The Appalachian Trail has many paths through woods and meadows. Cantiague Park, Christopher Morley Park, John Burns Park and Teddy Roosevelt Park are some lovely Nassau County places to tramp around for exercise and stimulation.

Personally, I am an urban walker. I am going to share three of my favorite New York City places for a "Metropolitan March."

1) The Promenade at Brooklyn Heights: it is suspended by a cantileer over the Brooklyn/Queens Expressway. Starting on the southern end and walking north, there is a rather large group of buildings on our left, across the East River, that is called Manhattan Island. The Wall Street skyline is world famous.

Roller bladers and bikers are to be avoided as you trek toward the Brooklyn Bridge. Some houses in Brooklyn Heights are over 100 years old. Pierrepont St., Montague St., and Cadman Plaza have unique architecture and many interesting restaurants.

Sit on a bench and do the Sunday Times crossword puzzle as you peek glances at the tip of Gotham. Only the very hardy and resourceful should walk over the Brooklyn Bridge or the Manhattan Bridge.

2) Carl Shurz Park: At about 91st St. and York Avenue on the east side of Manhattan, just south of the Mayor's home at Gracie Mansion, lies this lovely jewel of a promenade. Wave to Rudy as you start your parade.

Astoria, Queens, Welfare Island and Hell Gate are the sights on your left as you walk. On your right are the chic apartment houses of New York City. It is a short walk, but you get a view of the microcosm that makes New York wonderful.

Ethnic restaurants, the Vinegar Factory and some small theatres are all close by.

3) The Promenade at Battery Park City: the very tip of Manhattan offers a place for walking in the big city. This place is relatively new. It was reclaimed from NY Harbor and an entire city was built here. On a clear day you can see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and New Jersey.

You are close to the NY and American Stock Exchanges, the NY City Holocaust Museum and Fraunces Tavern, where George Washington addressed his troops. Walk slowly and enjoy the sights.

There you have it.

My three favorite urban promenades.

If you have any of your own you want to share, write me at: Dr. Stanley Greenberg, 169 High Pond Drive, Jericho, NY 11753.