Jogging beginners

TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY
Have you just started running? Remember, running is a full-body workout. “Your core is the control center. Through it, your arm swing influences every movement from your hips down, including step length and cadence.” In order to run tall, you need a strong, healthy, stable core. The rest of your muscles should also be in good shape so you can run light on your feet. Plus, a well-conditioned body helps prevent overuse and compensation injuries. This applies for all the body parts involved in running. “Regular strength training leads to better running performance.”

DON’T GET WORKED UP ABOUT SIDE ACHES
Many people suffer from side stitches when jogging. Sascha’s advice is to avoid eating anything solid about two hours before your workout and only drink in small quantities. When a side stitch does strike, take a break and walk. “Breath calmly and in a relaxed rhythm. Press your hands against the side that hurts.” Don’t start running again (and then only slowly) until the pain has gone away.

Are you super-excited to start your running training? As a new runner, you shouldn’t plan on running the entire distance in one go. “Break it down into intervals and try to keep them short at the beginning. Don’t be ashamed to walk between the intervals so you can recover a little,” recommends Sascha Wingenfeld.