Cheapest way to keep fit and healthy (Running)

Member Name: andyoz

Product:	Running
Date:	29/05/09 (36 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Easy access to anywhere and not time consuming

Disadvantages: Sore knees

Run rabbit, run rabbit, run run run. So is running just for furry little bunnies or is it something anyone can try. Well at the moment I have to say running is a big part of my life. And while I would not exactly say running has changed my life, I would say it has improved it. Am fitter than ever, have lost weight and am more motivated. So in general what are the pro's and con's?

Well for a start running is one of the cheapest sport available, all you need is a pair of trainers. Good ones (will some back to this later). It keeps you fit and healthy, does not take long and gets you out in the fresh air.

Would say the downside is risk of injury, if your running on roads it will damage your knees if you do it over a longer period of time. Plus it can be a little boring if your doing longer runs, to combat this I tend to put my I-pod on and listen to some loud music, sure this helps me run faster too.

If your new to running you need to start off slow and build up. Just run for five minutes first time and then as you increase your fitness you can run for longer and go further. Don't make the mistake of running every day! This will damage your muscles and lead to injury. The best routine is to do your major run one day, then the following day do a recovery run which should be about a third the distance and an nice easy pace. Third day have a rest. Then start over on the forth day.

The footwear is very important. I started running in some cheap cross trainers. A month in my knees were hurting and my feet were in agony! So I went to a specialist running shop, they were so helpful. They get you running and check out the gate of your run and the way your foot falls etc.. Then they will suggest the ideal shoes for you. Mine cost me £90 which I thought was expensive, but they have been worth every penny, have had no problems since and no pain. So if your going to make a go of running invest in some decent footwear!

When I'm running I really do forget all the troubles of life. I love running in some nice places, usually I go from home which is OK but there are much nicer places to run in the countryside. I always record my times and will compete against them on the next run.

Overall running is a great way to keep fit and enjoy yourself. Run on your own or with a friend or in groups? Either way just go out and enjoy yourself, the world is your running track!

Summary: Great fun and a great way to keep in shape