Jogging is an appealing activity to many because it involves simply putting one foot in front of the other. Whether performed alone or with a group, a good pair of running shoes is all you need to get started. If you enjoy individual sports but miss the camaraderie of a team, taking up jogging for competition or with a group might be of interest to you.
Jogging vs. Running
There is an ongoing debate among runners on the difference between jogging and running. Some define jogging as running at a pace slower than 6 miles per hour. Others claim if you complete a mile in less than nine minutes, you are running. There are also runners who believe that if you are not walking, you are running, regardless of your pace. According to the Merriam-Webster.com, jogging means "to go at a slow, leisurely or monotonous pace." Whether you call it jogging or running, elevating your heart rate through this type of cardiovascular activity can improve your overall health with consistent practice.
History
The sport of running has historically focused on speed. The modern Olympic Games began in 1896 and included a race that commemorated an ancient Greek myth involving a heroic run from the town of Marathon to the city of Athens. This distance, slightly longer than 26 miles, became what is now known as a marathon. Running remained an elite sport throughout most of the 20th century, until running experts began designing plans to encourage average people to take up jogging for fun and exercise.
Competition
Competing in an organized road race might help your jogging become more than a fitness activity. Foot races come in many distances and sizes, from 500 participant 5Ks to raise money for local schools to U.S. Track and Field sanctioned races of more than 20,000 runners. Many races offer separate prizes for men and women, age groups and training levels. Some runners enjoy participating in similar races throughout the year, competing against themselves to achieve personal records.
Group Activity
Sign up for a local running group to enjoy support from teammates. These groups usually train for a common goal, often to win team awards at races or to raise money for a charity. Some groups sponsor seminars and lectures, or have certified running coaches available to answer questions as team leaders.
References
- JogNRun.com: Jogging vs. Running
- Fitsugar: Running vs. Jogging
- Merriam-Webster.com: Jog
- American Heart Association: Statement on Exercise: Benefits and Recommendations for Physical Activity Programs for All Americans
- David Holt: Jogging or Running: You Make the Call
- EMedicineHealth: Dr. Richard Weil: Running
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