New to Running? See Your Chiropractor First!

By Donna Stark

It certainly isn't a new form of exercise. In fact, you probably did it with wild abandon as a child. But things are different now and you probably haven't laced up your running shoes in years, have you? Well, don't worry! It's never too late to start moving again and if running is your choice of exercise, I say go for it! Sure, you can probably expect a little soreness here or there in your body during the first few tries but don't let that stop you. With a few precautions, a great chiropractor, and a positive attitude, you are sure to rock your new fitness routine. Are you ready to get up and go? Check out these tips first!

Running Shoes

Make sure the running shoes you are going to use are in good shape. In other words, if the only pair you have are the ones from college that haven't seen the light of day in decades, you may need to consider purchasing a new pair. Go to a running store as soon as you can and get properly fitted by a professional. It will make a difference. 

Stretching

It's important to stretch before any run, so take an extra few minutes and warm your muscles up! Stretching your muscles before exercise is a great way to improve your flexibility, increase your range of motion, and reduce the risk of injury. And if you want to keep soreness at bay, stretch after you run as well!

Start Slowly

Don't underestimate the level of difficulty you are aiming to reach and push yourself harder than what you are prepared for. Start slowly. If you are on a treadmill at the gym, ignore that speedster running next to you. This is your journey and yours alone. So go ahead and set some reasonable goals. Then give your body the chance to reach them in a safe manner.

Visit a Chiropractor

If you are new to running or if you have been sitting more often than not over the past couple of years, you may want to consider seeing your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic before you start. Very few people realize how significantly a poor alignment can affect their ability to be active. So get your body fully prepared and decrease the risk of injury by establishing routine chiropractic care today.

Running for Improved Health

Tapping into your inner child and starting a fitness routine that includes running is a great idea on so many levels, but it is important to keep in mind that it is a physically demanding sport and should be approached with an intentional plan of action. So go ahead and lace up those shoes! Then visit your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic to get your body on track! With more than 450 locations nationwide and no appointment required, it's easy to hit the road running!

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