One reason that jogging so popular is that the equipment is minimal: you can jog in your high school gym suit (if it still fits), bermuda shorts, old work slack, even swim trunks - any clothing that fits loosely and comfortably and breathes so that air can continuously evaporate sweat. It is dangerous to jog in plastic or rubber suits that overheat your body.
The only item you will have to purchase for jogging is proper shoes. The right ones will wear up to a thousand miles and remain comfortable for each of the 1 1/4 million steps you will take covering that distance. You local sporting good store is likely to have dozens of running shoes available. Knowing what to look for will help narrow the selection.
A long-wearing shoe should have a reinforce toe guard so that, when you drag your toe or stumble, the shoe will not be scuffed or torn, The heel should be topped with a collar to prevent ankle chafing. At least a minimal arch support will help to absorb the impact when your foot strikes the ground with a force equal to about three times your weight.
Many experts recommend that the heel be elevated to prevent damage to the Achilles tendon. Some joggers do not agree, however They argue that flexibility exercises keep the tendon loose, and elevated heels cause a jarring stride. In any case, there should be additional shock absorbing material in the heel. The shoe should also include a cup support or reinforced construction behind and at the sides of your heels to guard against ankle and foot strain.
Avoid shoes with uppers that do not breathe or that will be damaged by the moisture from sweating, rain, or wet grass. Nylon and leather are both acceptable; nylon dries faster, but leather adapts readily to the shape of your foot while still offering firm support. Examine the shoe not so much for styles as for flexibility and durable construction.
Since the feet enlarge slightly as the day progresses, it is best to try on shoe at the time of the day that you will use them - and wear wear sweat socks. Try on both shoes. A foot measurement by the salesperson is the place to to start, but remember that shoe sizes vary significantly with manufacturers. Look for room in the toes, with your longest toe to a thumb-width from the front of the shoe. The heel should fit snugly - too much slippage will cause blisters.
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FEBRUARY 26
