Running For Good Health

Whether you intend to take up running as a sport, to join your first marathon, as a hobby or to stay healthy, it is relatively easy and inexpensive to get started. If you stay close to a park or running trails, it is even better and easier.
No big investment is necessary, only a pair of good running shoes and your time. Of course for those who intend to run at home, in that case you would need to invest in a home treadmill.


Even a short run round your block on a regular basis will get you a fit and toned body. Running also helps you to build muscles and endurance, burn calories and lose weight. You will be healthier.

Besides buying a good pair of shoes especially designed for running, wearing suitable clothes helps a lot too. Wear exercise clothes that are comfortable, bright and reflective. This is especially true if you run at night. Compression shorts and sweat socks would make running more comfortable.

Check out the places where you can run safely. Is the terrain suitable for running? Is it safe to run around the neighborhood at night? Is it brightly lit or dark and secluded? Go where other runners go and you should be pretty safe.

If running further from home, make sure you plan on how long it will take to run there and back. You do not want to end up too exhausted to run back.

It is a good idea to keep track of your time running the same route. Then you can compare the time and check whether you are running faster or slower. The gradual improvement in time can really act as a great motivator. It also means that you are getting stronger and fitter.

For those rainy days or you do not really enjoy running outdoors in winter, there is always the option of running on the treadmill at home or in the gym.

Running is not without its share of injuries. Running too fast and landing too hard on your feet can cause runner's knee, a very common injury among runners. This is due to the misalignment of the kneecap and the wearing down of the cartilage over time. Knee strengthening exercises are recommended.

Another common type of injury is Achilles Pain. Constant stress to the tendon as well as tight calf muscles would be the most likely cause. At this stage, it is better you stop running and do some calf relaxation and stretching exercises instead.

Ankle sprain due to misjudgment of your steps resulting in your foot twisting or bending inwards is not uncommon. Again rest is important.

Staying in shape through running is indeed a very popular way among health enthusiasts. Being healthy is essential for a better quality of life.

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