Running after 50 is a common hobby for baby boomers with time and energy on their hands. Where this new quest is more than admirable there are also a few tips to easing into the popular sport of running to avoid injury as well as to pursue running as a lifelong interest.
Like all other exercise programs and sports no matter the age of the participant for those planning on running after 50 it is advisable to clear the vigorous activity through your physician prior to hitting the track.
Once you have received clearance from your physician to pursue the sport of running do a personal assessment of your endurance and flexibility. More than anything it is imperative to incorporate stretching into your daily health and wellness program. You will wan to stretch daily, day and night, whether you run on that specific day or not.
If you have areas that are more challenging than others such as sensitive knees or tight hips, take the time to be kinder to those areas and consider adapting your running program to fit your physical needs.
The great thing about running at any age is that it is a year round sport that allows you to enjoy the outdoors and creates a wonderful sense of freedom and stress relief. To insure you are able to continue to enjoy your newfound sport and freedom indulge in a well fitting pair of running shoes designed for your specific foot type to avoid injury. Make it a point to go in person to purchase your first pair of runners to insure a perfect fit that will lead you to many years of running, strong legs, and to participating in of one of the most popular sports in the world.