Tips for the Beginner Runner

By Donna Stark

If you are looking for a way to exercise that is uncomplicated and has no time constraints, running may be your answer. With nothing more than a good pair of shoes and some weather-appropriate clothing, you can start burning those extra calories nearly anywhere you want. Indoors, outdoors, uphill, and down ... the options are endless and the choice is yours! But just because it is one of the easiest forms of exercise to incorporate into your fitness routine, that doesn't mean there aren't any safety precautions to take. Here are some tips on how to reduce the risk of injury so that you can reap all the benefits that running has to offer.

Practice Good Form

You always want to practice good form with the movements your body makes, but this is especially true with running. Take a look at the following suggestions.

• Keep your eyes looking forward
• Open your shoulders (pull them back)
• Position your arms at a 90-degree angle
• Relax your hands
• Lean slightly into the run
• Keep your feet apart while running (avoid crossover gaits)
• Aim to hit the surface with the ball of your foot

Invest in a Good Pair of Shoes

It is critical that your shoes provide both stability and support for your feet. By not doing so, you run the risk of injury to your feet, ankles, knees, hips, and back! So go ahead and do your research, but keep this in mind: a personal try-on may actually benefit you more than that quick sale online. In fact, many businesses that cater to runners have equipment at their store to help determine the best running shoe for your body. You really can't go wrong.

Maintain a Healthy Pace

Your physical ability and state of health are a couple of the most important things to consider when adding running elements to your fitness routine. You certainly don't want to start off too quickly or begin training too hard because doing so can place extra stress on your body which can increase your risk of injury. Make sure the goals you set are realistic and take your time reaching them.

Reaching Your Health and Fitness Goals

Running is one of the most common forms of exercise and it is easy to see why. It can be done nearly anywhere, at any time, and doesn't require any special equipment (other than a great pair of shoes). So go ahead and give it a try! And if you feel that your runs are causing pain or exacerbating existing pain, head on in to see your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic. They may be able to help all your future runs be as pain-free as possible!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Scottsdale, Ariz.