Questions on Jogging...for the very first time.

I want to take up jogging (I can't believe I just typed that ).

So far, my workout regime is walking (which I love) and an eliptical trainer (which I should do more of, but don't find it as interesting).

I'm just not sure where to start. I have a knee that occassionally gives me a bit of grief, but aside from that, I think I'm relatively good to go. I want to do this mainly to tone up and introduce a new part of my workout regime so I can alternate if I get bored with the trainer and walking.

Does anyone have any tips and tricks that they'd be willing to share? I'm just looking for what to expect, what not to do, what to be mindful of - that sort of thing. Also, shoes! I was planning on using my well worn (from walking) Nikes - that should do, shouldn't it?

 

Don't scrimp on shoes, go get you a good pair, made for running. Are you running on a track, through a neighborhood or what?

 

Thanks WW - I was hoping you'd chip in!

I was thinking of running on the open road - tarseal. I could run on a track (one of the polo fields next door to my house) if you thought that that would be better? The only thing about the tarseal road is that cars hoon at great speed, so I naturally pull over and I'll probably run at an angle (almost in the ditch).

Okay, I've talked myself into the polo field idea . Would that be better? Also, brand of shoes - any opinion on the better brand out there?

Thanks!

 

Weight training for your upper body is actually a big help. Runners (or joggers) have more endurance if they are stronger in the arms, chest, back and abdomen. You certainly don't want to transfer too much weight and get top heavy, but if you are at a gym, make it a point to do some upper body training as well and lower.

No need to hurry. Keep doing your walking and eliptical (great if you have a bad knee) until you gain more stamina. And talk to a certified trainer.

 

Wow - I'd never thought of the upper body stuff before, thanks B&B! You're right to keep the balance and take it slowly - I appreciate your comments, thanks .

 

So many people associate running with the legs, but it's a total body motion. You need to be strong everywhere so your body doesn't break down.
Drink plenty of water, and cut back on alchohol and caffiene.

 

I haven't taken their advice, but I've heard people suggest the website couchto5k.com

Just start slowly and build up. Your knees and shins will thank you.

Also, if it's for you after a month or so, go get some good new shoes. I've beaten a pair to death in a year.

In about four months, I was able to go from running about a half mile to running 4.5 or so in one shot or 2-3 shots at 3 miles in a week. I don't do it as often and now it's hard to find a good after-5, well lit place to go run, and if I could it's cold as shit most of the time, but I'm doing what I can when I can.

 

I'm working out so I can eventually start again. Unfortunately, my disgusting beer gut makes it nearly impossible to run right now.

 

Most excellent advice....also, read up on proper jogging technique.

 

I gave up jogging because my knees started hurting and I got swimmer's ear from taking so many showers.