Jogging Tips to Keep You Going Strong

If jogging is something you already enjoy or would like to start, here are some tips to make your experience a pleasant and safe one. Let me start by stating the obvious: I am not a doctor. I am not attempting to convince you that any certain form of exercise is right for you. Please consult a qualified medical professional before beginning or changing your exercise routine to avoid any detrimental effects.

Stretch: before and after. When you were younger, you might have been able to just jump up and start running. I know I could. At 35 years old, those days are long gone for me. You should always stretch your entire body before and after your jog to avoid any unnecessary injuries. Your body will thank you by being able to jog again tomorrow.

iPod Shuffle: The newest iPod Shuffle is a jogger's dream come true! It is a bargain retailing at around $80 or less. It is virtually weightless and it clips right on your clothing. No carrying, or even pockets required. Although there may be other small MP3 players out there that boast a similar "clip" feature, I can assure you that the iPod Shuffle has everything you need, and is available at most major retailers, electronics stores, and numerous online venues including eBay.

Good running shoes: Nothing will kill your jogging routine faster than blisters and sore feet. There is just no way around it; you need your feet in good shape to jog. Make sure your running shoes fit snugly and don't slip at all in the heel.

Good morning! If possible, consider starting your morning with a jog. Although no one would fault you for exercising at any time of the day, there seems to be something extra beneficial to morning workouts. I've never felt so "healthy" as when I start my day with a nice jog, even if it is only for a half an hour. My blood is pumping and I feel like I could take on anything the day brings me. Bring it on, world!

Incorporate walking if necessary, don't stop. There are going to be those times that you just plain get tired during your jog. When this happens to you, don't stop moving. Slow it down to a walk if you need to so you can keep your heart rate up as much as possible.

Use a Velcro carrying pouch. Be safe and lock up your home or car, and take your key with you. You should also carry your cell phone for emergencies. This used to be quite cumbersome as you needed pockets (that zipped, preferably) and then to have it jingling around was just plain annoying. Now you can purchase an inexpensive Velcro arm or leg strap to carry any small personal belongings. Should you be injured or witness any other strange phenomenon, you will be prepared.

Consider getting a dog. Okay, okay, not everyone is a "dog person." But if you have been considering adding to your family anyway, it just may help keep you on track with your jogging routine. Remember that your new pet will need exercise everyday, not just when you feel like it. You don't want to get a dog solely for the reason of adding an exercise buddy, when it may only be a passing fancy for you. If you choose to, however, exercising with a dog may also help you feel more secure if you are out in public, especially at night.

Make it a habit, however often it works for you. The best way to exercise in which ever fashion you choose is to keep doing it! Whether it is every day, three times per week, or whatever works for you. Get your body on a routine. This will be much easier to continue once you have established an exercise routine. You won't need to "find time" to do it (because no one has "extra" time.) It is best to have it scheduled in to your life. Make being healthy a priority for your own sake.