Barbara Jean Conti Rolfing® Structural Integration

View Original

Are You Considering Jogging?

One of my early posts was about the benefits of a walking program. If you are thinking about increasing the intensity of your exercise, jogging is a logical next step. Jogging/running is a good cardio workout, requires minimal gear, and can be done almost anywhere. However, transitioning to running should be undertaken judiciously. To avoid injury, build up distance slowly! And, after exercising, stretch your legs for a few minutes.

One way to build up your time and distance appropriately is to use a training plan or train with a running group. When restarting my jogging program, I have used both None to Run (my current favorite) and Cool Running’s Couch-to-5k ® plan. They both take you through a gradual progression to build up your ability to jog.

Although I was already active and had reasonable baseline fitness, returning to jogging put different stresses on my body than I was used to. Using a training plan helped me be smart about adding running to my exercise program.

One other strategy that has helped keep my knees happy is running on a soft surface. Some favorite unpaved trails are at Hyland Park in Bloomington, the Luce Line state trail west of Plymouth, and Afton State Park.

Having a good pair of shoes also helps keeps my knees happy. Your local running store can advise you on the best type of shoe for your foot.