Jogging: Benefits and Achieving the Proper Form

Photo credit: Bigstockphoto
Photo credit: Bigstockphoto

Jogging is a popular workout that involves trotting or running at a leisurely pace. This exercise boosts lung capacity, tones the body, and improves physical health. In today’s post, we are listing down reasons why you should add jogging to your fitness routine. We will also share jogging tips for safe, injury-free work out!

Health Benefits of Jogging

Boosts Cardiovascular Health

As a type of cardio workout, jogging improves the health by keeping the heart strong. Jogging keeps the heart rate up, stimulating the organ to pump more blood to the system. Studies show that regular jogging reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. It can also keep blood pressure down, reduce bad cholesterol in the system, and protects from hemorrhaging, atherosclerosis and aneurysms.

Reduces the Risk of Cancer

Multiple studies show that a fit, healthy lifestyle could decrease the risk of cancer development. Jogging increases blood flow and this promotes proper oxygenation of the cells. When the cells get the optional amount of oxygen they need, the risk of cell mutation decreases. Cell mutation occurs when healthy cells transform into malignant cells. Malignant cells replicate themselves at a much faster speed than healthy cells. Eventually, mutated cells will overtake healthy cells, causing tumors.

Jogging regularly ensures that the cells are getting enough oxygen, preventing or slowing down the development of certain cancer.

Promotes Immunity

A fit body is resistant to common infections. Jogging regularly strengthens the immune system by stimulating a special group of cells called macrophages. Macrophages protect from bacteria-fighting microbes and lymphocytes that weaken the immune system. Studies show that constant stimulation of macrophages keeps infectious diseases at bay. Jogging literally protects the body from viral and bacterial infections.

Improves Mental Health

One way to boost mental health and uplift the mood is working out. After a good workout, the brain releases endorphins that improve mood and provide a deeper sense of well-being. Jogging is definitely one of the most effective ways to boost endorphins in the brain, causing an upbeat mood. This is called as a runner’s high.

Alleviates Stress

Feeling burned out at work? Go for a short jog and you are bound to feel better after! The boost of endorphins in the brain does more than just put you in a good mood. Happy hormones – norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine – alleviate stress too! Working out regularly also improves health on a cellular level. It helps delay aging, promotes a peaceful state of mind, and reduces anxiety.

How to Jog Properly

Before jogging, wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Start by looking straight ahead of you, keeping the neck, shoulders, and jaw relaxed. Do not hunch your shoulders and lightly cup the hand as if you are holding an egg.

Allow the arms to swing from the shoulders in a pumping motion as then take your first step. Keep the arms pumping in tune with the legs for faster turnover. Breathe from the mouth to take in as much oxygen as possible during your jog. Keep the pace relaxed otherwise, you are not jogging, you are running.


Facebook Fan Page

Be first to get an exclusive and helpful articles every day! Like us on Facebook