Medical personnel always advice on exercise to keep fit and in shape, and the best exercise is JOGGING or brisk walk for at least 30 minutes daily. Taking jogging for granted will cause your body more harm than good, defeating the whole purpose of investing your time and money to stay in form.

However, slow running or jogging is a simple way to develop cardio-respiratory endurance. You can either do it alone, with a partner, or even in a group. Remember, a good pair of running or sports shoes is the only equipment you need, and finding a place to run or jog is as simple as walking out of your house. Getting a full workout through jogging takes less time than doing aerobic activity. This is because it can be done in almost all types of weather, when on vacation, or at times even during the lunch breaks.

As a weight bearing exercise, jogging provides stress to the long bones which also helps in the maintenance of bone marrow and decreases the risk of osteoporosis. Just like any other aerobic workouts, jogging also has positive benefits in terms of reducing obesity, stress, type 2 diabeties and several heart disease risk factors.

Jogging ceases to be a smooth run due to factors such as traffic and uneven pavements. Trying to progress too fast may sometimes cause impact problems such as shin injuries and sore knees. This popular workout is not for everyone. For people prone to muscle and bone problems, low or non-impact activities such as cycling, swimming and aqua are less likely to precipitate or cause injury. If you are overweight or out of shape, it may be advisable to start with a less intense activity such as walking.

Nonetheless, a carefully planned programme of progressive activity enables many people to enjoy running or jogging as part of their workouts. You can jog in almost any kind of weather if you dress appropriately. On hot days, wear as little as decently possible with shoes, socks, shirt and shorts. For cooler weather, add layers of long sleeved T-shirt and tights or long pants. In cold weather (near to snow) add a jacket or turtleneck sweater and to protect the ears and hands a stocking cap and mittens will do fine. In wet weather, wear a cap with a brim to keep the rain out of your eyes and rain proof clothes, if desired. Always keep in mind that when you are jogging, you generate body heat, and when you are warmed up, the body feels warmer than the actual temperatures. This is estimated to be about 20 degrees. On hot days, it is estimated to be about 70 degrees or even higher. On a warm day, it may be 50 to 60 degrees and on a cool day, it is about 30 to 40 degrees. High humidity on hot days and the wind chill factor on cold days are also considered.

A good pair of proper running shoes or sports shoes is important in preventing injuries. When jogging, your feet hit the ground with an impact of approximately three times your body weight. Well-made sports shoes can absorb the shock and support your feet nicely.