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J is for Jogging
The 1970’s saw an explosion in jogging and running as fitness activities worldwide. The health craze that swept the nation changed the way that people exercised, socialised and even dressed! Jogging shoes become the dress shoes of their generation. Recreational, as compared to competitive running, became popular. Mass participation runs ranging from a kilometre or two to more than a marathon grew in popularity and the nation was well on its way to increased health and fitness. So what happened?
Today only a small percentage of the population jogs regularly even though the benefits of the activity are high. Jogging is not expensive, only requiring a good pair of running shoes and some inexpensive running clothes, and very little skill. With consistent effort almost anyone can benefit from the activity and even improve performance if that is the goal.
Jogging is an excellent form of cardiovascular conditioning, weight control and helps in the prevention or control of other chronic disease. Yet there are some cautions that must be observed before starting a jogging program. Like many other vigorous exercises, jogging should not be started without the approval of your GP if you have a history of inactivity, or suffer from arthritis, osteoporosis, heart and/or circulatory disease.
Walk before you run. Jogging is a great exercise, but you should start a jogging program by walking, not running. Start slowly and build up. A regular 30 minute walk every day will assist in getting the body ready to start running. Surprisingly you will burn about the same amount of calories if you walk for one kilometre, or run for one kilometre! Once you have established a regular walking program you can get extra fitness benefits from moving to a more vigorous form of exercise such as jogging. Let’s get our community back on its way to increased health and fitness.
Written by Professor Kerry Mummery
College of Health and Human Services
CQUniversity
