While popular before quarantine, jogging has increasingly become a standard form of exercise for people seeking to stay fit while states are under restrictions. If you haven’t tried jogging before or if you are looking for a way to shed some extra weight, now is the perfect time to create a jogging routine in your life.

Many people are aware that jogging has numerous health benefits like improved cardiovascular health and is a useful tool for weight management. However, jogging has additional perks which are often overlooked. For example, incorporating just fifteen minutes of jogging into your daily schedule can help improve your mental health by reducing your risk for depression. It is also a form of exercise which does not have much of a price tag (requiring just running shoes and comfortable clothing).

Running Shoes

While jogging does not require any special equipment like expensive weights or a gym membership, you will want to invest in good quality running shoes. You do not have to spend hundreds of dollars on the latest style, but you do want to invest in a pair that is durable and will stand up to constant use. You will want to consider where you’ll be doing most of your running (i.e., on unpaved trails or on asphalt) and consult an associate at your local athletic shoe store for recommendations.

You can also ask the associate about specific insoles if you have issues like flat feet or high arches, as certain modifications can prevent any unnecessary strain on your joints and feet.

Build Up Your Routine

To get started with jogging, remember to gradually build up your daily run-time. Runners World suggests using the “run-walk” method which can be altered to your abilities and preference. An example of a feasible beginning run-walk structure is running for three minutes and then walking for a minute. You can continue to alternate between running and walking for as long as you like.

Find an Accountability Partner

Jogging can also be a social activity with a friend or partner. Identifying someone who is also making a commitment to start running can boost your morale and make exercising even more enjoyable. Moreover, a running partner can also serve as an accountability partner, or in other words, someone who will help motivate you to go with them for a run rather than watch another episode on Netflix. Knowing that someone is relying on you to help them with their exercise plan can help you stay more committed to your jogging routine.

Create a Schedule

Decide when you want to run. Do you plan to run before work? If so, you will want to make sure you factor in time to shower and change into your work clothes. If you run after work, make sure it is a time where you aren’t feeling too full after dinner or are too rushed to get housework done.

Let others in your household know about your running schedule. Ask them to support you as you try to stick to your routine. Things like homework questions from the kids can wait until after you return from your daily run. You can let friends know you will not be available by phone at that time.

Be sure to prioritize your run time, as it is a chance for you to focus on your own health and wellbeing. Once you have stuck to your schedule for a few weeks, you will most likely find yourself looking forward to your alone time, as it is a chance to “run away” from your stress for a while.