Getting active at 50 is not the most outlandish idea. Even if you haven’t been active in a while, there are still plenty of ways to start. Running is one of the most popular forms of staying active, but it can be daunting, especially at an older age. When you’re over the age of 50, it’s important you approach running (or any physical activity) in a smart manner, as your body tends to struggle with more intense exercises as you age. While it is important that you’re careful, getting older doesn’t mean you can’t run at all. Read on for a few tips to help you get into running over the age of 50.
Start With A Doctor’s Visit
Before you start training, schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional to talk about your goals and concerns. They’ll also be able to walk you through some of the common health issues that you should be aware of.
A comprehensive physical is a great way to keep track of all of your health issues and improve your overall health. It will provide you with important information about your body, such as your weight and blood pressure.
Buy Good Running Shoes
Getting the right running shoes can make or break your experience. Check out our reviews and recommendations to find the best running shoes for you. A good running store will have a salesperson who can monitor you as you run or walk in their shoes to make sure that they are providing the proper support.
Good running shoes should provide adequate support and cushion to keep your feet and legs feeling fresh. While you’re at the store, also check out the other running accessories such as socks and clothes that are designed to keep you cool.
Don’t Rush Into It
Start by not running every day. This will allow your body to adapt to the stress of the previous run and prevent you from experiencing more breakdown and injury.
Instead, run every other day, as it allows you to recover and strengthen for the next run. You may also have to consider running every three days, depending on your age and the state of your body. If you’re unsure, this is something you can speak to your doctor about.
Be Safe
It can be a good idea to keep a record of all of your contact information and personal health information when you’re running. This can be done by purchasing an ID tag that’s attached to your running shoe or by wearing a bracelet. This is important because if you’re alone and something happens, passersby can find out who you are so they can get you the appropriate help.
Online tools such as MapMyRun and Google Maps can help you find the best routes to run in your area. They can also help you find a local group run that’s geared toward all abilities. Having a group of like-minded individuals helps keep you focused and motivated.