Jogging and Running Tips-a Mental and Physical Way of Life
Jogging
and running is probably one of the most least expensive forms of cardiovascular health or aerobic exercise that you can do for your fitness goals. Jogging and running does not require that you purchase expensive memberships at various clubs, or fitness centers, or purchasing expensive gym or home gym equipment.
Jogging and running is something almost anyone can begin now to see the cardio health and exercise benefits in such a relatively short period of time. However, with any physical fitness or cardio exercise that you decide to purse, it is always advisable to first consult with your medical care provider first to ensure you are healthy enough for taking up jogging and running for cardiovascular exercise.
I first need to tell you a little (about me) here. I have been running since 1978 when I finished high school and joined the US Navy. I started running in high top basketball sneakers aboard ship serving in the Middle East. I was a new runner then and I was thinking that all shoes are the same . How wrong I was in that thinking ! Within a few months I started to develop severe
shin splints
and the Navy doctor told me I needed to be using a proper pair of
running shoes
, which my parents sent me. My first pair of running shoes were an ugly pair of yellow adidas running shoes. However these first pair did serve their purpose.
Running Tips and Jogging Must Dos…
Stretch
Always make sure you do at least 5-10 minute calf and ham string stretches, before you head out on your favorite trail, road, or track before you begin your jog or your run. Streching prior to your running or jogging will ensure your muscles are warmed up sufficiently to reduce the likelihood of of injury to any of your calf or hamstring muscles, which are some of the more frequent injuries you can experience without proper stretching.
calf and ham string stretch
before you head out on your trail, road, or track before you begin your begin to jog and run. ALWAYS streching prior to beginning your daily or weekly run will ensure your muscles are warmed up sufficiently to reduce the likelihood of of injury to any of your calf or hamstring muscles, which are some of the more frequent injuries you can experience without proper stretching.
Start Out Slowly
Take your time when you are just starting out in your runs or your jog. You’re not in a race strong>(at this point) , maybe in the future, that may be one of your goals , to run a race or two or maybe even a
marathon
! Enjoy your jogging, being careful to listen to your body. As with any new activity, you will be a bit sore after your 20-30 minute run, this is too be expected. I am currently running 10 miles every other day and I virtually notice no muscle soreness or stiffness-because my body is conditioned. Yours will be also if you take your time, stretch before hand and pace yourself.
Run with a Running Partner or a Friend
It goes without saying that there is power in numbers. It is always beneficial to run with a friend or jogging partner. Not only can you both encourage each other in your self discipline as you both are self-motivation each other, more importantly if anything should happen to either one of you, one of you is available to take action in calling police or a motorist passing by.
Running and Jogging Defensively
Just as you would drive defensively, so too you should run defensively, always being alert and expecting the unexpected . I’ve already been hit once by a car, and I was hurt at all since I saw the vehicle coming and I quickly literally jumped and dove over the front of the car to avoid injury, accept for my damaged ego and pride, I have live to run another day.
If you must run on the road, always always run facing traffic. It is much better to see what is coming towards you so you have ample time to react and get out of the way, then to be hit from behind with no reaction time. This is an important safety lesson for all walkers, joggers, and runners alike. And lastly never ever jog or run while listening to your IPOD, or MP3 player , it's the same thing as talking or texting while driving a car, you are distracted and you could die!
,BR>
Remember: "The only Unfulfilled Goals in Your Life are the Ones you Never Attempt".
Have a Favorite Jogging or Running Trail?
Do you have a favorite running or jogging trail that you would like to share and recommend to others? Please tell us why.
personal goal setting

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