Red Hot Mamas In Charge of Change.
By: Guest Author
Published: April 10, 2018
Article written by Anna Sonnenberg- Guest Contributor
Whether you’ve had regular running practice in the past or you’re thinking about taking up this type of workout routine for the first time, it’s never too late to start running. When you’re over 40, however, you’ll want to take a few extra steps to get the most out of your workouts. Try these five tips to find your stride over 40.
Learn the Proper Form
While you should run in a way that feels natural to you, keep in mind that adopting an improper form can lead to injury and muscle strain. As a general rule, you should run with a relatively short stride, make sure your foot stays under your knee, and use your core to maintain balance. Keep your hands relatively relaxed, and loosen your elbows, bending them no more than 90 degrees. Always step as lightly as possible rather than landing with the full force of your body.
Invest in the Right Gear
Having the right running gear is key to performing and feeling your best. Whether you prefer to run in shorts or pants, make sure you’re wearing breathable fabrics that wick away moisture and help you stay as cool as possible. Don’t hesitate to pick up a new pair of sneakers, as the right running shoes can make or break your run. You’ll want to hit the pavement in a pair of shoes that provides cushion for your joints, support for your ankles, and enough room for your feet to expand as you move.
Eat a Balanced Diet
For the best possible run, fuel your body with healthy food. Eat a diet that emphasizes whole foods over processed items, and consume a balanced diet of lean protein, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Whether you want to lose or maintain your weight, always make sure you’re consuming the right number of calories and a healthy balance of macronutrients to meet your fitness goals.
Set Reasonable Goals
Whether you’re already in great shape or you’re jumping back into running after a long break from regular exercise, take care to set reasonable fitness goals. For example, you can try alternating between walking and running or do interval training, which switches between high- and low-intensity running. You can also extend your running time every week to build up stamina gradually. You can also download an app, like Lifesum, to help you track your progress and monitor your goals daily.
Let Your Body Recover
Remember to let your body rest and recover between runs. Recovery is especially important if you aren’t accustomed to running or working out regularly. Aim to run every other day or three days per week to start. Be sure to warm up before and cool down after each run to prevent injuries and keep your body feeling strong.
Running can be a fantastic exercise option at any age as long as you approach it from a healthy perspective. Keep these tips in mind to make sure you hit your stride.
Author Bio- Anna Sonnenberg is an experienced writer and editor who focuses on health and wellness, travel, and digital marketing — but rarely all at once. With her background in research and the arts, Anna has a solid sense of the art of storytelling, along with a drive to gather the supporting data.
Image via Flickr by Peter Mooney
The views expressed herein this article, written by a guest contributor, do not necessarily represent those of the Red Hot Mamas organization. The content is for informational purposes and should not substitute the advice of your doctor.
