Jogging

[Cheekystar]

I'm hoping to start jogging to help me lose some weight - what should I be aware of, what do I need (apart from the obvious) any equipement you'd recommend, how do you carry keys etc, if you take them.
thanks

[4GS]

I only carry my house key, so it's not too bulky in my pocket, and recently (at the insistence of Mrs 4GS) my mobile (in case I get hit by a car). I also have an isotonic/sport drink, non fizzy.

[Champagne]

Decent trainers are the most important piece of equipment. You'll need proper running shoes as these will have the necessary shock absorbers.

Make sure you do some warm-up/stretching exercises beforehand, especially for your leg muscles.

If you need to carry keys or any other small items then a jogging top or bottoms with zippable pockets work best for me. Otherwise you'll need a small backpag or bum bag.

Take some music too. It makes the run more enjoyable. And pre-plan your route. Pick somewhere scenic and fairly close by. Decide just how far to plan to run but don't set yourself unachievable targets. As a beginner you might not run very far but you can build on that over time.

Have fun! :o)

[mirela]

sorry, insert a sub question, is it good taking dog for jogging?

[Bohne]

How much weight do you want/need to lose?
If you are quite overweight, I would suggest start walking instead of jogging, since it is less demanding on your joints.
And fast walking can be very demanding, too.
I am not talking about going for a walk!!!

In either case though, do buy good shoes.
I usually hold my keys in my hand, or put them into a little inside pocket in my pants.

I only take drinks when going for long runs (i.e. > 15 km), for that I have a special bag that I carry round my waist.

Other than that, some people find it easier to get into a routine when they have a partner.
It is harder to cancel runs, if somebody is waiting for you.

Have fun!

[delboy3]

For really effective jogging, don't stick to the same constant pace. Alternate your speed so that your metabolism will get a boost.

[Scarlett]

Maybe get some advice from the Doc first. As stated above, if you are quite overweight you don't want to overdo it and damage yourself! Jogging is quite hard on joints too. Could you maybe go to a gym and ask advice from a trainer there? You could jog on the machines but also learn about other forms of exercise. Swimming is great too.

[Cheekystar]

thanks for all your advice - i've been using a cross trainer for 12 months now and done really well but just need a change of pace

[spazvas]

Hello Cheekystar, just wondered have you thought about joining a running club? I joined one about 6 weeks ago and find it helps to be in a group of people, you get help, advice and a lot of encouragement. Think its more fun being with people and it spurs you on!
I need an incentive sometimes to turn out when its easier to be a couch potato and this helps me to keep going! Also just registered for my first charity "fun run" so I have a goal to train for.
Good luck Spaz

[snowangel_uk]

Good on ya !

Check out Bupa's website - it has some really good tips for folk wanting to start running, including building up to 5km and 10km runs :

http://www.bupa.co.uk/about/asp/running

Also, decent trainers are a top idea - Do you have a local branch of Sweatshop - they can video you on the treadmill, analyse how you run, and recommend shoes which will be comfortable and support you properly.