In addition to shedding fat, adding muscle, and improving
cardiovascular health, this activity will help increase the strength and
density of your bones. Many people,
especially women, will lose bone density with age. Running
is a great way to build that density up and keep your bones strong which will
make them more resistant to breaks.
There are many activities that one can do to stay healthy, but, as we pointed
in this
month’s newsletter, few others require less equipment. Strap a good pair of running shoes on your
feet and you have a wealth of many different trails and paths to run on in the
area. No gym membership required! Do pay
attention to the type of surface you are running on. While it may be easiest to run on the
sidewalks in your neighborhood, concrete can be very demanding on the joints of
your legs and feet. Instead, consider a
dirt trail or designate running track as a new runner. Running on a softer surface will give your
body opportunity to adjust to the new demands placed on it.
Before you join the large community of Austin runners, make a
visit to your family physician. A
regular check up is a good way to catch any possible problems before the increased
demands can cause damage. Likewise,
make an appointment with your Austin podiatrist to
investigate any minor aches or pains.
That mild ache in your heel or nagging stiffness in your toe can become
very painful, very quickly if not cared for before you begin running. Too often foot pain and limit or prevent you
from participating in various activities.
Unfortunately, many of these pains can be eliminated with proper
treatment by a podiatrist. A proper
evaluation of your feet can also help you to select the proper running shoes
for your foot type. Take the time to
properly prepare yourself now and you can enjoy your runs for years to come!
