How to jog properly?

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Replies

  • chubtofit
    chubtofit Posts: 67 Member
    I have also recently started running/jogging and suffered with shin splints initially. I did find some good shin stretches online (there aren't too many as its a difficult area to work). Also as others have mentioned, get someone to check both your feet and your form. I used to be a heel striker but now that I've learned to land mid-foot, the shin splints have disappeared. Try running barefoot and see/feel how your foot lands and then try the same form with shoes on. It is almost impossible to heel strike when you are barefoot but unfortunately with the way shoes are designed for most people - you heel strike without realizing it. Also, make sure you are really warmed up first. Good luck...and it does get easier.
  • Peeriegemgem
    Peeriegemgem Posts: 23
    I suffered really badly with shin splints. In the first case I was being "cheap" and bought insoles for my existing trainers. They did ease the problem somewhat!

    More recently took the time to go to a proper running shop and get my gait recorded on the treadmill. Its amazing to see how your feet land, and it was no surprise why my right leg was really far worse than the left. I now have Nike Fitsoles, and these have a cushioned lump to help me land more flat footed and not over pronate. The only issue I've had with these is very blistered feet due to the extra bit in the shoe - I should have invested in anti-blister socks - so would recommend this!
  • RBXChas
    RBXChas Posts: 2,708 Member
    What is the best running shoe in your opinion?

    Everyone is different. I have Asics but they may not be right for you or the next person. Best thing I ever did, find the running store guy who let me try on 25 pairs of sneakers until I found the ones that worked best for me.

    ^THIS. Go to a store that specializes in running shoes and get fitted. Try on a bunch and let them see you walk in them. You'll probably try on some brands you've never heard of, and they may be a bit pricey, but they'll do you better than doing what I would do otherwise, which is walk into Kohl's and pick out the prettiest pair that feels comfy and doesn't cost too much!

    I ended up deciding between Brooks and Newtons and went with Newtons.

    Also, don't wear your running sneakers when you're not running (or walking for exercise). I have a cheapie, cute pair of sneakers for non-running, "out-and-about" use.
  • RBXChas
    RBXChas Posts: 2,708 Member
    One more thing: The folks at the running shoe store may help you with orthotics, too, which is good because your feet likely aren't the same. I have a really low arch on my right foot and a normal one on my left, so I wear an orthotic insert in my right shoe but not my left. (Unfortunately they are not sold separately!)

    Oh, and I sort of answered your follow-up question (not a stupid question, either!), but to clarify, if you are walking to warm up to jogging, you should definitely wear your running shoes. I always approach my runs with a warm-up walk (and a cool-down walk); every runner should be doing some sort of warm-up. I also take fast-walking breaks during my runs, but the more breaks I take, the more I stretch out my run :wink:

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