Is running a good way to get in shape?

Question

I'm trying to get in shape, but don't want to spend money going to the gym, so am trying to get into the habit of going running. Is just running enough to get me in shape? And how often should I run?

Answer 1

thats like asking do you have to hold your breath under water

duh

Answer 2

running can be a great way to get into shape. Just remember some things before you start.

stretch before and after your workout, don't just bolt out of your house. Take it slowly at first, you may want to walk, thern jog, the run, sometimes during your workout, sometimes one at a time. And don't just plop down on the couch after finishing.

check your pulse. often. Listen to your body it will guide you to what feels right and when.

consult your doctor especially if you are overweight, have cardio or respiratory isses.

find some one to run with you, not only will it motivate you to keep it up, you will eventually challenge each other.

cross train if possible, hike, bike, swim, play tennis etc. this will ensure all of your muscles get worked out.

try to run 2-3 times a week to start. start slow and build up both intensity and distance over time, keep a journal.

A good way to discover local routes is to drive with the odometer set to zero and try drives around your home. I tend to do several 1-2 mile round trip routes from my home and a few amgitious 5k/7.5k/10k routes as well. Map them on a local map, like the one in the phone book.

A good way I found to keep up with it was to award myself with running or exercise stuff, not a trip to "all-you-can-eat-cheesecake buffet," after accomplishing some goal, i.e. new running shoes, workout gear or iPod. Anything to help you focus on your running goals.

Good luck and watch out for cars.

Answer 3

yes.

you should start out jogging for twenty minutes (or about 2 miles) or so every day (take one day off per week). GRADUALLY increase the time (or mileage you run).

you might also want to try to work on your upper body, do push ups, sit ups.

Answer 4

Think you got it right by trying to get into the "habit". Stretch before and after. Start out easy and go from there as it feels right. Find a routine two, three times a week or everyday. Whatever works for you. but stick with it. Good luck and have fun.

Answer 5

u should run 1 hr a day

Answer 6

Good for you! Getting into the habit of running to keep in shape or loose a few pounds and inches here and there is great! Shows that you really care about your body, I take my hat off to you ;)

Start out by running 20-30 minutes everyday. Once you feel like you can take on more, increase your running distance and stamina. Try running up and down hills, and shorter distances help as well, not just long distances. Do what you can! Obviously if it becomes too much, relax... take a break... or limit what you do daily.

I wish you the best of luck! Running is a difficult thing and it can get very tiring, but the outcome of it will be a beautiful body and a more toned person.

A few helpeful hints...

1.) Breath IN through your nose and OUT through your mouth.

2.) Take long strides with your legs! [Long strides get you closer to your destination faster!]

3.) Pump your arms at 90 degree angles without having them cross in front of your body.

Sweetie... I know you can do it! Have fun :)

Answer 7

Running is the best way to get in shape start out slow and increase as you feel compfortable.

Answer 8

round is a shape!