The Effects Of Jogging Every Day

A commitment to jogging every day comes with many benefits, but there are also some risks. The degree to which the benefits and hazards apply to you depends on your approach. If you jog every single day, without fail, no matter the weather or how you are feeling, you will subject yourself to unnecessary risks. On the other hand, allowing yourself rest days will yield all the benefits while minimizing risks to your health and safety.

Short-Term Benefits

Most adults should do at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day, and jogging for 30 minutes or more fits the bill. Jogging is considered vigorous physical activity, burning about 295 calories in 30 minutes for the average person, according to the Centers for Disease Control, so a regular jogging schedule can help you lose weight. As you continue to jog daily, it will get easier and easier, which serves as a good motivator to stick to your exercise schedule. Your muscles will become more toned, your endurance will improve, and you will have the satisfaction of seeing and feeling the physical results of your efforts.

Long-Term Benefits

A healthy jogging routine includes short, easy jogs as well as tougher ones. It does not involve pushing yourself hard every day. Jogging can boost your mood; runners talk of an “addiction” to running because they develop a great desire to do so daily. The United States Running Streak Association has members who have run every day for more than 40 years, and these are undoubtedly very physically fit people. If you have this desire and your approach is safe and sensible, daily jogs can be a significant part of a healthy lifestyle for the long term.

Issues

If jogging every day does not easily fit within your schedule, you may find it frustrating to try to maintain the routine, which can hamper your personal health and fitness goals. If it is not easy or viable for you to get out and jog daily, there is no harm in choosing alternative forms of exercise. For example, in a hot climate, jogging outside can become a real chore in summer months, giving you an easy excuse not to do it. Consider joining a fitness class in an air-conditioned gym. Doing the same kind of exercise repeatedly can also get boring, which may discourage you from continuing.

Long-Term Hazards

An absolute dedication to jogging every day whether or not you are injured or well, and whether it is 120 or 35 degrees outside, is inherently hazardous. Injuries are more likely when conditions are extreme. Regular runners commonly experience aches and pains including shin splints, stress fractures, hip and knee pain, arch pain, blisters, chaffing and muscle tightness. Overuse injuries among runners include bursitis and stress fractures, according to the American Academy or Orthopaedic Surgeons. Distinguish between needing a break from jogging and wanting a break: pushing yourself is good, but pushing yourself too far or when you are sick or injured is not.

Rest Days

The American Academy or Orthopaedic Surgeons says to schedule regular days off from exercise. It also says not to exercise when experiencing fatigue, soreness and pain. This is reiterated by the Road Runners Club of America, which recommends three or four jogging sessions a week and states specifically that beginners should not run every day. While jogging, or doing any physical activity, always stop if you feel out of breath, dizzy or nauseated, or if you have pain. Consult a doctor if your symptoms are troubling.