If you’ve never jog before or you’ve had a long break from jogging, it can feel challenging getting out there to start. If you are looking to begin a jogging regimen, the following tips will help you get the best results.
The fact is that with any program, you have to start with baby steps. It takes mastering how to walk for fitness before you start jogging. Never give up in frustration. Of course, it helps a lot if you really enjoy the challenge of exercising. Those that enjoy the exercise that they select are prone to continue with the program long term.
Getting Started
Step One – Always get medical clearance from your physician before starting any exercise program.
Step Two – Wear some comfortable clothing and a good pair of running shoes that cushions and support the bottom of your feet, especially the arches.
Step Three – Design a course of action. Select the area that you are going to jog. Make sure that it is an area that you could easily move for 30 minutes. Beginners might like to try an area around their block, backyard, or even walking in place. It is your choice. Jogging for beginners is easy when following this approach.
Step Four – Don’t forget to warm up your body before you start. Never start cold. Starting cold might lead to muscle injuries and strains.
Step Five – Start out walking at a relaxed pace. Gradually increase the pace until you are walking briskly. This will give you a really good workout. Walk for 5 or 6 minutes and then try jogging for 60 seconds. Go back to walking 5 to 6 minutes and jog for 60 seconds. Repeat this pattern until you reach the 30-minute mark. Do this every day for a week or two until your body build up its endurance level.
The next step is to gradually increase the amount of time spent jogging and decrease the time spent walking until you reach the 30-minute mark. This may take several weeks or months before you are able to jog for longer periods without stopping to catch your breath.
Step Six – In future workouts, you might want to start incorporating running in your regimen. Remember, the aim is to start out slow, and gradually increase the amount of exercise and energy that is expended. Follow the same routine outlined above. Start out jogging for 5 or 6 minutes and running for 60 seconds. For each week, gradually increase the amount of time running while decreasing the amount of time jogging. Do this until you are able to run for longer periods without stopping.
It is also important to remember to cool down afterward. This is a very important part of the exercise. Gradually slow your pace until you are walking slowly and then stop. Perform a few stretches to relax the muscles.
Val
(photo: courtesy of commons.wikimedia.org)
