Jogging

Jogging is an exercise similar to running but at a slower pace. It is intended to increase fitness with less stress on the body than running. It is an aerobic exercise involving the heart, lungs and muscles. It requires more muscle use, breathing and balancing than walking.¹

Fast Facts

1. High-impact exercise¹
2. Proper stretching reduces the chance of injury²
3. Puts strain on the joints¹
4. Good cardiovascular exercise¹

Who Should Jog

University of Iowa Hospital suggests jogging as a fitness routine for individuals who are already fit. Instead of jogging a beginner should walk. Once the individual's heart rate and breathing are normal while walking, a jogging routine may be started.¹

Choosing a Good Pair of Shoes

WebMD suggests determining the arch size and the exact shoe size and width before purchasing a jogging shoe. All the bottom surface of the foot should be in contact with the sole and the foot should not be squeezed in any way. The foot is also most swollen in the afternoon, thus trying on shoes in the afternoon will prevent purchasing shoes that are too small. Knowing what part of the foot makes contact with the ground first is important in determining what type of shoe to purchase. WebMD suggests bringing in old shoes as the worn region will reveal the part of the foot that makes ground contact first. Getting a good pair of shoes will prevent exercise related injury such as blisters, tendonitis, shin splints and plantar fasciitis.³

How to Jog

Women's Fitness.net suggests stretching before and after each jogging session. They also suggest a walking or slow jogging for five or ten minutes at the beginning and end of each session. This allows the muscles in use to warm up and stretch, reducing the chance of injury.²

Women's Fitness.net encourages breathing regularly while jogging to ensure that the muscles get enough oxygen throughout the workout. They state that jogging should be done with a good posture, tight abdominal muscles and that the arms should also be "pumped" back and forth.²

Disclaimer

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before beginning a jogging program.

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