Safety Tips for Seniors Who Run

As one grows older, it is very important to keep healthy and fit. Regular exercise of any kind can help boost energy and manage symptoms of pain and illness. Some exercises have even been known to reduce the effects of aging to some degree. One of the best exercises to get involved in at an older age is running. Running not only helps one keep fit, but it is a good tension and stress reliever

DO: Walk before you run

Pushing yourself too hard, too soon is counterproductive. You should first begin with walking, preferably around your neighborhood. In time gradually increase the distance and speed of your walk. At this point your heart and lungs will have developed enough to give you the energy you require for running.

DO: Find a running buddy

A great way to stick to your running program or enjoy it is to get a running buddy. Also, older people may benefit from the added level of safety that jogging or running with a partner normally brings.

DO: Wear the right running gear

It is important to wear the right running gear when running. For those running in their senior years, even the slightest of injuries could severely affect mobility. Healing time may also be delayed due to poor circulation and a deteriorating immune system.

DO: Carry your identification documents

When running, have your identification with you. If you have any underlying medical condition, you should have a list of the medications that you are currently taking along with your doctor's number. This could help save your life in the case of a medical emergency during your run.

DON'T: Forget to warm up

Warming up helps protect muscles that are already less elastic and more prone to injury compared to when you were younger. Warming up will definitely help you get the best out of a run.

DON'T: Forget to assume the proper posture

As an older runner, you should maintain proper posture throughout a run. You should hold your head up, not down, and keep your eyes on the horizon. Keep your shoulders back and your chest out to reduce fatigue and facilitate efficient air exchange.

DON'T: Gasp for air

You shouldn't be gasping for air as you run. If you notice that you are gasping too much, you should stop immediately. Breathing should be even and rhythmic as you run.

DON'T: Forget to consult with your doctor

For those with pre-existing conditions such as osteoarthritis, heart disease, respiratory complications, and high blood pressure, a doctor's opinion should be sought. Running with pre-existing medical conditions could make a bad situation worse.

For those who are older, exercising is the key to staying energetic, strong, and healthy. If you have never taken part in any exercise, running may prove to be a bit of a challenge. However, with the right safety tips, almost anyone can begin running at an older age. To ensure that running won't worsen any pre-existing health condition, always confer with your doctor before taking part in any running routine.

Source: http://running.answers.com