Learn How to Jog with These Simple Jogging Tips

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14. The mixing of speed and time (distance) is explosive and dangerous, especially for the novice jogger. When you decide it's time to increase your training, choose only one variable to push. It is usually best to increase distance (a maximum of 1 mile a week) rather than speed, although improving the quality of your pace may certainly be called for.

15. Good diet. The jogger's nutritional needs aren't all that much different from those of the general public, except for perhaps increased fluid and caloric input. The jogger should attempt to get nourishment from fresh, natural sources.

Immediately before, during, and just after running, the runner's drinking habits should concern him or her more than what's eaten. A pound of fluid may drain away in as little as two miles, and on hot days the rate may be faster yet. Fluids must be replaced. You needn't worry about drinking too much fluid, because your kidneys will unload the excess water in a matter of a few hours.

16. A recent National Geographic study found that people who live extremely long lives have several things in common, regardless of where they live. They eat lightly, exercise every day, and their diets contain little or no meat.

Getting Started Jogging

You've seen hundreds of joggers, and now you want to imitate one. Go to a busy jogging area and watch a number of joggers very closely. Which ones look as though they're having a good time? Which ones look as though they're pushing themselves through hell? Which one do you want to look like? How are the hands being carried? Watch the pace of the best, it looks slow and relaxed. Notice how the shoulders and hands are held. Listen to how the feet strike the earth. In your mind's eye watch yourself move and try to loosen up. Form, how you get there, is far more important than speed anal when you get there.

When to Jog

You will need to choose an appropriate time of the day to jog. One in which it is realistic to take time. For this reason many people jog the first thing in the morning. Others find their lunch hour an appropriate way to work out and reduce calories simultaneously. Some prefer the evening as it allows an effective way to "rejuvenate" between leaving work and entering the evening. Of course, you'll have to discover what works well for you. What will not work is hoping to fit in an hour between a couple of appointments. Taking time is one of the basic disciplines of the sport.

The Mechanics of Jogging

Proper mechanics are important for efficient, gentle, silent jogging. The ultimate goal is to jog with ease and animal grace.

1. Hold your back straight. Stand nearly erect. This will allow you to develop a smooth and even stride. For many this will require strengthening the abdominal muscles and losing weight.

2. The length of your stride (measured from the point where your right foot touches the ground to the point where it touches again) should about equal your height.

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