Any runners/joggers?

**Momto2Boyz** · 08-02-2008, 07:33 AM

DH and I just started jogging regularly. We are starting super slow, but it is going well. I'm a jogging/walking (on and off) about a mile and a half a day. Hoping to get up to completely jogging between 3-5 miles a day, eventually.

Does anyone have any tips?

**Michelle** · 08-02-2008, 07:41 AM

I used to love running. I ran track in HS (I wasn't very good, but I did enjoy it

) Anyway, I had to stop when I broke my hip & pelvis. Now I'm not allowed to do such activities, and I really miss it.

I don't really have any tips, but I would say you're doing well to work your way up to where you want to be. How many days/week are you running? Remember to give your body a rest at some point during the week

Have fun!

**The Muse** · 08-02-2008, 10:47 AM

I'm a runner and I got started using a couch to 5K program that gradually increases duration and distance over the course of 12 weeks.

If you're interested in this type of approach, do a search and you'll find the program. There are also a number of free podcasts that you can download and use as a personal trainer of sorts.

**JerryG** · 08-02-2008, 01:11 PM

I put in several miles a week. Always stretch thoroughly before AND after. This should include stretching your arms and back as well as your legs.

NEVER run on concrete (I live in the city). I go out of my way to find dirt or grass stretches and will run on pavement (asphalt), but never concrete. Too hard on my knees.

Last but not least - hydrate. Before during and after (depending on how long / far out you are). I rarely carry water with me cuz' I'm rarely out longer than 30 minutes at a time.

As far as adding distance / time. I started with 10 minutes out. 10 minutes walk and then repeated that. Honestly, just determine if you want to increase your time / distance. I got to a point where it was 30 minutes total and have not pushed to go further.

And yes, invest in a good pair of shoes. I went to a store that specializes in marathon racing equipment. I never intend to run a marathon but I'm on my 3rd pair of shoes. I use them ONLY for running. Nothing else - not work, not running errands, etc. When they finally get trashed out, they get put in the "every day" use category and I go get a new pair. They are not cheap but I consider running cheap therapy.

Enjoy!

**nuisance26** · 08-02-2008, 01:51 PM

~Me! I just started a few weeks ago. I've always been a great walker/hiker but my lung power has always been too weak for jogging. But I decided to change that this year and I'm working my way up to a full mile jogging. I take a 2 1/2 mile walk and spend 6 minutes of it(in 2 segments) jogging. I've made it up to 3/8th mile before having to transition back to walking. I'm really loving it! It makes me feel so powerful and free!~

**The Muse** · 08-02-2008, 03:08 PM

Originally Posted by JerryG

I put in several miles a week. Always stretch thoroughly before AND after.

Stretching before you've warmed up actually increases your chance of injury. It's best to stretch after you've warmed up, or only at the end of your run. Stretching at the end of your run will help prevent soreness.

**Drgnfly423** · 08-02-2008, 07:47 PM

I in the midst of the Couch to 5k program right now! (my third try at it) I'm determined to finish this time! I recommend it to all beginning runners! It really helps build strength and lung function.

**iida** · 08-02-2008, 08:43 PM

I used to love running. I started by walking and then little by little added some running, first downhill. When I had walked my route of about 7km a few times I started to run every other lamp post to lamp post and alternate this with walking. And after doing this for a while I started to add little more running and walk less. It was easy and fun. I am going to start again soon. I haven´t walked much this summer since my foot was fractured, but I will definately star running again.

(I have a feeling my post is written wery poorly. I think you can understand the idea, though.)