Jogging is one of the most popular endurance sports among the population today. More than ten million people throughout Germany regularly lace up their running shoes. Hardly any sport is as uncomplicated and easy to learn as running. But does running really only have advantages, or does it also have disadvantages?
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Jogging
Burning Of Calories
The biggest advantage of jogging for most people is the enormously high calorie consumption. On average, an adult burns 700 kcal in an hour at a moderate rate. That’s a whole bar of chocolate.
Strengthening The Cardiovascular System
But a much more important advantage that jogging brings with it is the following: regular jogging strengthens the cardiovascular system by forming the “athlete’s heart”. Within 60 seconds, 5-6 liters of blood flow through a person’s body, supplying the organs with oxygen. During physical exertion, such as jogging, the muscles need more oxygen, which is why the heart pumps faster to transport it. With regular training, the heart expands and the so-called “athlete’s heart” forms, which leads to a slow pulse and optimal blood pressure.
Happiness & Health
Another advantage of running is the release of happiness hormones, such as endorphins and serotonin, which are responsible for our good mood and happiness. In addition, the sunlight that you are exposed to while jogging increases bone density. Thus, osteoporosis can be prevented.
Flexibility
You can run anywhere and with the right clothing at any time of the year or day. All you need is your own body and a pair of running shoes.
Despite the many advantages, there are also a few disadvantages when it comes to running that you should know about and avoid:
Disadvantages Of Running
Joint Strain
If your joints are already stressed or damaged, it is better not to jog. Because of the constant strain on the knee and ankle joints, they are exposed to a very high level of stress. This is why overweight people should also resort to endurance sports that are easy on the joints, such as swimming or cycling.
Unilateral Training
During running training, our largest muscles, legs and buttocks, are particularly stressed. Important muscle groups that contribute to core stability are neglected. Therefore, it makes sense to always combine cardio training with strength training.
Monotonous Training
Due to the monotony that can result from the regular movement when jogging, beginners in particular feel a rejection of this sport, which leads to a loss of motivation.
Eat & Drink Properly
Before each workout, remember to drink enough and provide your body with enough carbohydrates to completely replenish energy stores. This is particularly important during a long endurance unit, as the memory is completely emptied. However, the last large meal should be at least two hours ago, so that the food is no longer so heavy on the stomach during training.
