Jogging, one of the simplest exercises, can be done almost anywhere and requires no special equipment. It's also one of the most effective in terms of the health benefits and the calories you burn. To help get started jogging or to get more out of your current routine, use the following tips.
One of the best things you can do to stay motivated is to run with a friend or even a group. Running with a partner can be a great source of motivation but if you prefer to run alone, that's okay too. You are less likely to quit or give less than your best if you have a partner running with you. Talking with someone while you jog can be fun, just don't let the conversation become a distraction. Be sure to focus on jogging and maybe save the conversation for when you're finished. One way to keep running interesting is to run with a partner or group. If safety and health is important to you, make sure you are constantly aware of the surfaces you are jogging on. If you want to remain injury free, stay on flat ground and keep away from gravel and areas with lots of obstacles. When you run or jog on hills and in terrain that's not flat, it can bring some spice to your routine, but unless you have done it before, you should stick to flat terrain. Running up and down steep inclines can really put some pressure on the joints in your legs and feet, and that's why it's best to start out on regular terrain when you begin your routine.
Before you walk or run, it's really important to warm-up and stretch, but also it is important to do a proper warming down after exercising. The point of warming down is to allow your body to adjust without experiencing extremes of activity. Just as you want to start off slowly, you should end your run the same way, slowing down before you stop. Always stretch before running, and then do lighter stretching afterwards. Also, if desired, you can sit down and put your feet up so the level of your feet is above your heart, and what that does is it helps your heart return to normal.
It's always good to check with your doctor, but if you can run then you can receive the benefits, and you can start at practically any age - so don't let that stop you. We're all human, and sometimes you won't feel like running - but do it anyway, and you'll usually find that once you start, you'll be glad you did. By sticking to the above guidelines, you'll be able to enjoy the benefits of running for many years.
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