(HealthDayNews) -- Jogging is great exercise, a fun way to experience nature, and a wonderful way to spend quality time with your dog.
But how do you get started?
The American Podiatric Medical Association suggests you begin with a visit to a podiatrist. He or she can examine your feet and identify potential problems, discuss conditioning, recommend a style of footwear and prescribe an orthotic device that fits a running shoe, if you need one.
Then you're off and running. Start with a four-day-per-week conditioning program for 12 to 16 weeks.
Begin with two sets of two-minute jogs interspersed with five minutes of fast walking. As the weeks progress, increase the number of minutes jogged per set to 20 minutes. Spend at least five workouts at each new level.
By the 16th week, you should be able to run two sets of 20 minutes each, with a five-minute walk before, between and after. Make adjustments for heat and altitude, and don't be frustrated if you think your pace is too slow. A disciplined regimen will decrease your chances of injury.
And don't forget to warm up, cool down and stretch.
