Sunday, April 20, 2008

Running For Health and Fitness

ASICS® Men's Gt 2120If running is for health and fitness, then what are you afraid of? Questions like, what does running do for my health? When I start a running program, how often and how far should I run? Where do I run? What type of running shoes and fitness clothes should I wear? We will try to answer your questions to make running an enjoyable workout and a program for health and fitness that will become part of your life.



First, before you even get started, consult your doctor and get [ his or hers] approval to start a running program.

Stretching regularly can help you avoid injuries. One tip is to stretch during and after a run. DO NOT stretch cold muscles. To start, do an easy walk or jog as a warm up.Now lets look at the most important piece of equipment you will need, a good pair of RUNNING SHOES. I purchase mine through amazon because they have a great selection. If you are brand new to running, I would suggest going to your local running store so you can be PROPERLY FIT for size and the shape of your feet. There is nothing worse then having a great looking pair of shoes that don't fit and give you blisters. You need to keep your feet happy! A comfortable running suit with pockets for keys, I.D., etc. will be a nice investment. Choose between many styles and brands through amazon.


Starting out a running program, I've found that it is a good practice to spend more time walking then running. For a good health and fitness running program to begin, start with a good 10 minute fast paced walk. Then alternate 30 seconds of running with 1 minute of walking about 3-4 days a week. Every week increase your running time and decrease your walking time. Do it at a level where you are not breathless and if someone asked you a question, you could answer them comfortably. After 4-5 weeks you should be running continuously 20-30 minutes. At this time the distance you run is not important, but try to focus on time and keeping a comfortable but challenging pace. After completing your run make sure you stretch your muscles. This will help them cool down properly and aid in the recovery process of the muscles.

The question on where to run can have a few answers. First, I will tell you where not to run. DON'T run on concrete! Your joints take a pounding and over a period of time you will experience soreness in your knees and ankles. Go to the local high school and use their track.Find a nice scenic bike trail or if you belong to a local heath and fitness club take advantage of their track. The other alternative is a treadmill. They are physically easier on your body and there are no weather conditions to put up with. I personally do both. Days when the weather is nasty or you just want to stick close to home, I use the Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill. I purchased mine through amazon with no problems.


Getting yourself started with a health and fitness program for running consists of just a few basic needs. Find yourself a very good and comfortable pair of running shoes and a running suit that keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Set your goals on a program you can progress with and get health and fitness benefits. Find a track , bike trail, or a good treadmill to run on. Remember DON'T run on concrete. Stretch out your muscles during and after your run.

Your Benefits From Running:

Now lets answer that last question, what will running do for my health? First you can loose some unwanted fat, because running requires a lot of energy and that will burn off a large number of calories. Great for cardiovascular health. Running biggest benefit to me is the ability to RELIEVE STRESS. When you run as it was explained to me by my family doctor, hormones called endorphins are released. These hormones create a sense of euphoria which has a positive affect on how you feel and the mood your in. The positive effects running will have on you, as you can see are both mental and physical. There is nothing to be afraid of. Start your running program now and get your HEALTH and FITNESS and cardio benefits.

For more articles like this please go to my website:
http://health.mbsonlineproducts.com


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