Why Start Running?

Exercise is something people neglect in our busy information age. We spend ten hours each day working and commuting. Finding time to exercise after a busy day working is next to impossible for most people. However, exercise is well known to be crucial to good health and longevity, so people go out and spend their hard earned money on a gym membership.

At first, they dedicate themselves to exercising spending as much as two hours working the machines four or five days each week. Unfortunately, for most of us, excuses to miss a day of exercise become more frequent. The typical working adult usually lasts only five months before they completely give up on their expensive gym membership, often while still tied into an expensive 12 month contract. Sound familiar?

Benefits of Running

· Running is a safe, inexpensive, and simple form of exercise that most anyone can do right now. The only equipment needed to incorporate running into your daily routine are the right running shoes, running clothes, and the desire to stick with it.

· Running is a sport that does not require any training. Put on your running shoes with a good  quality pair of running socks, and get out the door.

· Running is one of the best exercises for improved cardiovascular health and stamina.

· Running burns more calories in less time than other forms of exercise. It helps burn fat so anyone desiring weight loss will benefit from running.

· Runners are less likely to injure themselves than those involved in other forms of exercise. Weights can cause injuries when used improperly. Complex exercises can injure backs, joints, muscles, and ligaments. Gentle running brings little risk to the runner and so many benefits.

Getting Started

Obviously, starting any exercise program requires patience. Start off slowly, increasing distance and speed gradually. Gentle stretching before a run can help reduce muscle stiffness afterwards, but do not stretch muscles too far or for too long.

Make sure running shoes are neither too new nor too worn out. Running shoes are the most important piece of equipment to buy for your new sport. Do not be afraid to spend money on a good name brand shoe. Generic brands could bring more risk of injury.

Dress appropriately for your work out and for the weather. Exercising in extreme weather is not advised. If it is cold, make sure your clothing works for the area you live in. If it is hot, dress lightly and bring your water bottle.

Safe equipment and the ease of running as a sport make this a good choice for busy people. Put on those shoes and take off.