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Have you ever felt the ecstasy that comes after you exercise? Do you want to burn those extra pounds without going to extremes? Do you want to stay healthy and live longer? If your answer to any of these questions was yes, then you should try it!
Some people see it as an exhausting exercise or a waste of time. Well, the truth is that this exercise has many benefits. How do I know that? Simply because I’ve been doing it for over a year.
I’m talking about jogging. As I said earlier, I’ve done it for over a year now and I must say, that I’ve never lost my shape, not even when I eat too much over the Christmas vacations. =)
Jogging is actually recommended by many doctors, since it has many benefits, it has a positive influence on your cardiovascular system and improves mental facilities. Besides from the health benefits it also reduces fat and strengthens your leg muscles.
If you are a beginner you should take it easy for the first few weeks, even months, since we all don’t have the same metabolism and resistance. For the first few weeks you should try to walk fast or if you’re in good shape run at a very slow pace. Try doing it for 10 minutes non-stop, and then you should walk normally, at an even pace; not slow turtle pace and not New York walking pace – just between the two, for 5 minutes. The next 10 minutes start walking fast, or running at a slow pace. The last five minutes, you should take it easy, allowing your muscles to calm. You must remember to stretch out before and after jogging, in order to prevent any muscle strains. 5 minutes would do. You should also take into account your breathing. It takes some time to adapt your breathing during exercise, inhale by the nose and exhale by the mouth, do it quickly so more oxygen in your body is produced, which will make your muscles work at a faster rate.
If you feel that you can go for a longer time, then do so. Put yourself mini goals. Every day try to set a new goal. For example, today I’m jogging for 30 minutes, tomorrow for 40 minutes, and so on.
You should be able to run at a slow pace by the fourth week, if you really put yourself into it.
By the time you finish your jogging session, I promise you that you will feel the runner’s syndrome – the feeling of groundless happiness, the physical and mental well-being, and as a result – your mood will be sharply improved. This effect might not come immediately, but if you really give it your best, trust me, you will feel fit and happy with yourself for taking this time to take care of your body.
I challenge you to try it – only for a day and if you don’t like it, then leave it. It’s not mandatory!
This article was written by Michelle Bermudez, a 12th grade pupil at the Abraham Lincoln School, she is also a Casa de Campo Living intern.
Please remember Michelle is NOT a doctor and is NOT qualified in any way to give medical advice – she has written this article from her own experiences as a jogger, which she wanted to share with you. If you are in any way unsure about starting a fitness regime – seek medical advice from a doctor!!!!!!!