The Running Basics

So maybe some of you are considering adding a bit more cardio to your recipe for good health but don't know where to begin. If the idea of running is looming over your cranium then you are in good company. No need to buy expensive equipment or pay exorbitant amounts of "moolah" for a yearly gym membership. Generally, all you need are a good pair of running shoes, comfortable clothing and the desire to run. Now running is not for everyone, those with heart conditions, joint or knee problems, might want a second opinion on something less jarring on their anatomy; consider an alternatives such as an elliptical trainer which does not impact the joints and is an overall good selection. But again, consult with your physician before you engage in any exercise or diet routine!

However, those of you seeking a "runner's high" have come to the right place! I get my daily fix at least 4 or 5 days per week. During the process, I've made an interesting observation over the last few years and it involves the Queen of metamorphosis, Madonna. Yes, you heard right. Let me explain....she is arguably one of the most physically fit celebrities over the last couple of decades. Here is my point, we've seen her jump on every fitness bandwagon that there is. Lifting weights, Yoga, Pilates, the Macro-biotic diet... but what has stayed a constant in her life? More than any relationship she has ever had? Is her love of running. Although she has still maintained her Yoga and Pilates routine (until further notice or the next fad workout), she is continuously out and about jogging with her personal trainer. Not just Madonna in fact, the likes of Renee Zellweger, Nicole Kidman and countless other celebrities are avid runners. It provides your body with overall conditioning, cardio and circulation. You are engaging every single muscle in your body. Have some doubts? Go for a 5 minute jog around the block and tell me how you feel the next day if you've never run before. You'll feel the pain in muscles that you didn't even know existed!

Now, I cannot stress the importance of a good running shoe and each shoe is different. Go to your friendly neighborhood running shoe establishment, the more selection the better and get comfortable as you should be there for awhile comparing the comfort and fit of each shoe. Not too wide, not too tight and plenty of arch support as well as shock absorption, this is crucial. Otherwise a knee issue could be the least of your worries. Personally, most times when I go shopping, I don't like when a salesperson approaches me but in this case, I welcome their help. They can give you all sorts of tips and information if they are properly trained. I suggest you go specifically to a "running oriented" store to get the best help as you don't want advice from someone who may just be there to cash a paycheck.

If you are a woman who is beginning to run, you may also want to consider investing in a good sports bra too. I can speak from experience here and tell you that if it wasn't for my trusty sports bra, I'd be blogging here with two permanent black eyes ;) The material should be breathable and preferably cotton so as not to irritate your skin. Specially designed runners socks are also a good idea but not imperative. As you begin to train and see if it's right for you, you can begin investing in all the gear. For those of you in a colder climate like myself, layering is the key and having a windbreaker to offset the cold is good for an outer shell.

Now someone sent me a fantastic link recently that I would like to share with all of you. Anyone interested in running a 10K marathon and would like to know exactly how to go about that can go here and take a look: http://www.sportmedbc.com/Content/InTraining/Programs/Run10kIntro.asp

Other than that, try to enjoy running if you can, breathe in the fresh air, go site seeing or grab your mp3 player full of high energy tunes and away you go!