Tips for Jogging for Health, Fitness, and Weight Loss

Many people find that jogging is the best way to improve their fitness levels and lose weight. The calories you can burn are great, and your heart and mind are also enjoying the benefits, as well. So keep on reading, and you'll learn a few solid tips that you can use to get even more benefits from your daily jog.

If you are going to run or jog to get in shape, you must be consistent. Many people are really enthused with a running routine when they first start, but sometimes people can go overboard with it. That's when they usually suffer an injury, like a pulled muscle, and they'll usually stop running for months at a time. This isn't how you want to do it if you want to get the most out of your running routine. You should start slowly, and be consistent. When it comes to running, go for a half hour three times per week for maximum benefit. Don't worry about speed at first, just do it. You will always get more out of running if you just do it without worrying about how fast you're going, instead of going too hard until you burn out. While you should never run or jog when you are ill or when you're injured, you still might have to push yourself many times. If you always come up with excuses, like you're too tired or you don't have the time, then you will likely have a very hard time sticking with your running plan.

If you're new to running, or jogging, then we recommend you start slow and do power walking. If you're new to running or haven't exercised in a while, you can help your legs and body get acclimated, so to speak, by walking. The important thing is to listen to your body, and then just make gains according to how you feel. Once you're comfortable and ready for more, then do more such as a slow and steady run, or jog, but be sure to listen to your body. Many people try to do too much, too fast; and that is inviting injuries. There are a lot of ex-runners who are unable to run because of old injuries, and power walking is an excellent alternative for them. Even those who are able to run might want to work their way up to a faster pace by walking first.

When running or jogging, it's important to warm up first, but it's equally critical to slow down the right way. Try to avoid extremes such as high intensity running followed by a stop and then walking away - it makes a difference to cool/warm down. So it's really important so you don't experience tightness and injury to begin slow, run, and then slow down before coming to a walk. Then it's a good idea to do some light stretches. 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. Jogging has so many benefits and there several reasons to start. Jogging will help you lose weight but it will also help improve your overall fitness level. A good run will even improve your mood. Being consistent is the key to getting the best results from your jogging routine. Use these tips as you begin your jogging routine and you will soon see the benefits of this simple but powerful exercise.