It's Never Too Late To Start
Exercise doesn't have to be the sort of intimidating high-intensity workouts you see on TV; it can be as easy as a leisurely jog around the neighborhood. There's no one way a runner looks, and you can start running at any stage of your life with no experience at all. Here are some great reasons to start.
1. You Can Manage Your Weight
Weight management is one of the main reasons why people take up jogging. Whether it's to lose weight or keep it consistent, regular jogging can help you lose weight and keep it off by burning calories. Jogging can also help manage weight related conditions such as cholesterol and blood pressure.
2. It's Free
Really intense runners will tell you that you need a fancy watch with a specific app, carbon-plated shoes, and a simple outfit that costs an entire paycheck. And they're wrong. The only thing you truly need to start jogging is a pair of comfortable and durable shoes, which we bet you already have in your closet.
3. You Can See New Sights
Some people like jogging on a treadmill or a track, but for those of us afflicted with wanderlust, jogging gives an opportunity to see some sights that have been hiding right under your nose. Whether you're admiring the changing colors by the river or doing some discreet dream-house hunting in an upscale neighborhood, nice scenery can be a wonderful motivator. Don't feel bad if you stop to snap a few pictures either.
4. You'll Build Stamina
The first few times you jog, you'll probably feel like hot garbage. Maybe your lung capacity isn't what it used to be and you get winded easily. Maybe you're just not used to it. Whatever reason, your body will adjust with routine, and soon you'll find that you can go farther and farther.
5. You Get Me Time
The world can be hectic, and, rather than doomscrolling into oblivion, jogging gives you the chance to unplug for a bit. You don't have to literally unplug, but practicing a little mindfulness will help you get away from it all. Breathe in, breathe out.
6. You Can Make Friends
We'll get into the more social aspects of running in the back half of the article, but it's important to note that it doesn't have to be a solitary endeavor. Making friends as an adult can be difficult, especially if you've just moved, or otherwise feel disconnected from your community. Jogging can help you meet people you wouldn't otherwise.
7. You'll Have More Energy
Studies show that just 30 minutes of jogging throughout the week can improve your mood, energy, and concentration. If sitting at a desk all day has you feeling sluggish, jogging can be the solution to your problems. For even more energy, consider catching the worm along with all the other early birds.
8. You'll Sleep Better
Studies also show that jogging can improve your sleep. Not only is sleep important to athletic recovery and performance, but it can also help regulate your body's circadian rhythm—your sleep cycle. Consistent exercise can help you get longer and deeper sleep.
9. It Can Help With Stress
Not only is pounding the pavement a great way to get aggression out, but it can also be a form of stress relief. We aren't just talking about a runner's high here. There's scientific evidence that jogging can be therapeutic for those struggling with depression and anxiety.
10. Your Heart Will Thank You
Is your heart giving you trouble? Jogging will have it working like a well-oiled machine. Jogging can help lower things like cholesterol and blood pressure, as we discussed, while also reducing your risk of diabetes and overall heart health.
Now that we've discussed a few reasons why you should start jogging, let's look at how you can make it fun.
1. Make A Playlist
If you want to jog with only the sounds of your feet hitting the pavement, then more power to you. However, most people prefer some sort of background noise. Reserve a playlist, audiobook, or podcast that you only listen to while you're out for a jog to build up incentive.
2. Go With A Friend
Jogging, like happiness, is better when it's shared. This isn't to say that lone wolves shouldn't forge their own path, but that there are tons of benefits for running with a pal. For starters, you can act as each others' hype man to push through the pain.
3. Join A Club
If one friend isn't enough, you can join a running club. Personally, we can't think of a better way to make new friends. You'll get to improve yourself and hear all the neighborhood gossip.
4. Have Fun Gear
Like we said earlier, the only thing you need to jog is a good pair of shoes, and those don't have to break the bank. However, a little fun never hurt anyone. Get an outfit in your favorite color(s) and only allow yourself to wear it when you're out for a jog. You'll be dying to get out in no time.
5. Set Goals
Exercise is not a straight line from point A to point B, but it can help if you set some goals along the way. Maybe you want to be out for a certain amount of time or cover a certain amount of trail. Goals can also be more internal, such as working on your form and technique.
6. Go Off The Beaten Path
Chances are that your area likely has some trails that take you through nature. Use them to your best advantage. This can be especially helpful for city-dwellers who feel like urban has them down. Immerse yourself in nature and forget about the rest.
7. Gamify Your Route
There's an entire article to be written about the gamification of jogging—and for a good reason. Exercise doesn't have to be punishing, it can also be fun. Keep your eyes peeled for a scavenger hunt, try speedplay, or download an app like Zombies, Run! that will have you fleeing digital zombie hordes.
8. Bring Snacks
Don't risk getting crabby or crampy when you're out and bring snacks and plenty of water. Energy gels are great for routes of more than an hour, while a protein bar can encourage you to stop and take a breather. If all else fails, you can always bring a piece or two of your favorite candy.
9. Share Your Wins
Starting running in itself is a huge accomplishment. Keep your motivation up by celebrating your wins and sharing them with others. Even if it's something as seemingly insignificant as going a mile or a few minutes longer, make the most of your small victories.
10. Break Up The Monotony
Who says jogging always has to be about perfect form? If you find yourself getting bored with your routine, get a little silly with it! Intersperse periods of jogging with joyful movement such as skipping, jumping, or high knees. A few minutes of airplane arms can't hurt either.
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