Jogging and running are both excellent ways to get and stay fit. Both are forms of cardiovascular exercise that raise your heart rate, burn calories and help you build muscle. You need little equipment to take up jogging or running and you can do it almost anywhere.
As with any physical activity, you should keep safety in mind if you decide to start jogging. It is always a good idea to talk to your doctor when you begin a new fitness regimen, particularly if you are overweight, suffer from health complications or if it has been a long time since you exercised regularly.
In addition to the commonsense precautions you would take in beginning any new activity, there are a few additional safety guidelines to keep in mind when you start jogging or running.
Take care of your feet.
Shoes are of the utmost importance. Your feet, ankles, knees and hips absorb a vast amount of shock with each step and in order to keep them healthy and pain free you should have proper footwear. In fact, good running shoes are the only real equipment you need to get fit by running or jogging. If possible, have a professional measure your feet and help you choose the best shoes for your foot size and type. Be aware of how long your shoes should last and replace them regularly. Choose shoes that fit comfortably right away – you should not need a “breaking in” period.
Begin slowly.
Starting a new fitness routine is exciting. You begin with visions of how good you will look and feel when you are in shape. Excited by those visions, many people are too enthusiastic and over do it at first. With running, you should begin slowly to avoid injury, and to prevent feeling discouraged. Try running or jogging for a set amount of time, like a minute or 90 seconds, then walking for a minute. By alternating between walking and running you will build stamina and your confidence.
Choose a safe place to run.
If you live beside an interstate roadway, you should not run alongside the road. However, if you live in a quiet neighborhood with a cul-de-sac, you will probably be safe running on the sidewalk. Make sure that wherever you choose to jog you will be safe. If you workout at night, be sure to stay in a populated, well-lit area. Many people are most comfortable jogging at a track or in a public park. Do what feels right and what is safe.
People who enjoy their workouts tend to maintain an exercise routine for longer. Have fun, but also be safe!
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