Jogging on concrete can be difficult on your body. This is generally attributed to the high level of resistance concrete has and how your body deals with the shock of pounding on such a hard surface. The effect on your bones, joints and tendons can be particularly pronounced. Running safely on concrete, however, may be done in several ways. Wearing properly padded shoes, being particularly vigilant of the road ahead of you during your run, and switching surfaces you jog on regularly can make concrete jogging more tolerable.
Step 1
Wear properly padded running shoes. Unlike track shoes, which can be lighter or have thinner soles, wear thicker-padded shoes to absorb more of the shock from jogging on such a hard surface.
Step 2
Ice your shins or joints after jogging if you begin experiencing pain. This will help prevent swelling and further irritation or damage of your tissue.
Step 3
Take days off from jogging if you continue to experience pain in your body.
Step 4
Vary the days you jog on concrete with days on dirt or rubber tracks, grass or trails, if possible. This will minimize the sustained impact on your body over periods of training.
Step 5
Jog on the side of the asphalt street, if possible. Asphalt tends to be softer than sidewalk concrete.
Step 6
Avoid cracks in sidewalks or significant debris, as these can break your stride or cause you to trip and fall.
Tips and Warnings
- Plan your route ahead of time and choose streets that are less populated, if possible, allowing you to jog on the side of the street instead of the concrete.
Things You'll Need
- Quality running shoes
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