What are the best things to remember when walking/running for exercise?

March 12th, 2009 | by DistanceRunner |
Jihanemo asked:


I’ve just started jogging for exercise - actually walking/jogging/running. But I’m not sure how to control my breathing when jogging or running? I’m not exactly even sure how to position my arms? How about stretching before a run? How long should I run for??? In intervals of walking AND jogging?… What are the best things to remember when walking/jogging for exercise?

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  1. 2 Responses to “What are the best things to remember when walking/running for exercise?”

  2. By rinny.heartz on Mar 12, 2009 | Reply

    Just do what comes naturally but 1 thing to remember is that the speed you move your arms should be the same speed as your legs

  3. By TopHat on Mar 16, 2009 | Reply

    1) Drink water. Bring a waterbottle when you jog, because dehydration is very dangerous.
    2) Stretch. Stretch the legs, but don’t forget the upper body.
    3) Every few weeks, take a break. Walking is fine, but jogging and running places a lot of stress on the bones and joints. You could get seriously injured if you keep placing stress on your legs by running and jogging - stress-related fractures are rare, but very possible.
    4) You don’t need to “position” your arms. Whatever’s comfortable for you is good. You should be running in a way that feels natural - nothing is forced, nothing is rigidly kept in place. Take a few short runs to figure it out. If you really can’t get the mechanics watch some athletes and amateurs training, there are lots of videos online.
    5) Don’t force yourself. Learn to differentiate between “I’m feeling too lazy to go” and “I really shouldn’t go”.
    6) After stretching, start with several minutes of walking to warm up and get in gear. Then proceed to a light jog, etc. Never start sprinting as soon as you walk out of the door, especially when you’re a beginner.
    7) Start with about 10-15 minutes, gradually work your way up to 30+. 8) Breathing should also come naturally, as it’s a matter of preference and training style. When running slowly (6>mph) I breathe normally and evenly. As I get faster, I usually use the 2-2 breathing: (short breaths) breathe in, breathe in, breathe out, breathe out, etc.

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