Jogging is often seen as the gold standard for keeping fit and it's true that how your body reacts to jogging can be an adequate indication of your overall health. Unfortunately, jogging myths that are perpetuated by joggers and even fitness experts could discourage some individuals from beginning to jog, or worse, be lulled into a false sense of security that jogging is sufficient exercise for optimum health. Debunk common myths to decide whether jogging is right for you.
Jogging is For Fit People Only
It's true that seeing hardcore joggers race past you in the park can be intimidating, so it may seem as though jogging is exclusively for those who are already in sterling shape. But most joggers engage in the activity because it contributes to overall health, not because it's for the healthy elite only. By starting small with slower speeds and longer distances, you can start to condition your body for jogging. Unless you have a painful condition that prohibits running, such as arthritis, you can begin jogging little by little to build your endurance and your level of health.
You Need Pricey Jogging Shoes
Walk into a sporting goods supply store and you'll notice a wall of running shoes that can run anywhere from $60 to upwards of $300 per pair. And since you need to replace your shoes every 400 to 400 miles, the price can add up if you're a serious jogger. But purchasing pricey shoes won't make you a better jogger. In fact, a study published in a 2001 issue of "SportScience" found that running barefoot had certain advantages over pricey running shoes, including injury prevention and lower oxygen intake. If you don't want to run barefoot, any pair of supportive, well-fitted running shoes should be sufficient.
Always Stretch Before a Jog
Traditional stretching, where you extend the various muscle groups in your body, is often seen as preparation for jogging. This can actually do more harm than good. Since your muscles are cold and rigid before you begin your running, stretching them past capacity could cause pulled muscles. Instead of traditional stretching, try a static warmup. This includes a slow jog to warm your muscles before you limber your body for your jog, which can result in greater comfort, injury prevention and better recovery.
Jogging is Sufficient Exercise
While it's true that jogging provides excellent cardiovascular exercise for your body, it's not all that your body needs. Jogging for 30 minutes every day will fulfill your daily cardiovascular activity requirements, but it can also be taxing on your body. Since jogging can be high-impact, interspersing runs with lower-impact exercise, such as swimming or dance, can help relieve some of the aches and pains that jogging can cause. You'll also need strength training at least three times per week, which can help strengthen your muscles for better endurance when running.
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