Run To Stay Fit!
During the month of March, our focus is on running. Anything worthwhile takes time, effort, and focus, and running is no different. It takes dedication to make exercise a part of your lifestyle but the payoffs are exponential in terms of your health. Physical activity can reduce your risk of chronic disease, improve your balance and coordination, help you lose weight — even boost your self-esteem.
Here are some steps you can take to get started:
- Check with your doctor before starting an exercise program, especially if you’re over 40 or have a family history of heart disease or other health problems.
- Get good gear: Visit a local independent running store and have yourself fitted with the shoes that are right for your feet. Invest in some running shorts, shirts and socks. Stay away from 100% cotton as it tends to retain sweat.
- Get a group together. You may find it easier to get out of bed and out the door if you know someone is waiting on you.
- If you’re not regularly exercising and want to start running, your first steps should be spent walking. Give your body some time to get acclimated to the new demands put on it. Add in short bouts of running to your regular walks and gradually increase the time you spend running.