Every year we look towards doing something different. We think of what things in our lives we want to change as a start to something positive. A change for the better, of course. But what will it be, Quit smoking? Give up drinking (Alcohol)? Or will it be to get fit, to take up some physical activity, like Weight Lifting, Aerobics, Yoga, or Running...?

Now, before you run out and buy the top goods, shirt, pants, and of course those, sometimes, overpriced running shoes, ask yourself if you really want to do any activity at all. For most people, 80 percent who give up smoking, drinking, physical exercise etc, give in after 3 weeks. Yes, not long at all, is it? I have seen people pay the highest prices for the best goods, only to see them all lay waste a few weeks later. Good quality tops and bottoms, fancy and expensive running shoes, especially designed to fit that persons specific feet and run - and all of course, too big to fit me. Running is not for everyone. But if you have the want and the desire to run, then running is the best form of fitness to choose.

Example;

You are outdoors and hopefully in a place where you can breathe in the fresh air and surrounding area; where you can run at your own pace and sit and refresh and, if you are stressed or angry with the world, wife, husband, boyfriend or girlfriend - your Boss - for example - you will find that running provides you with a clear and refreshing mind, when all those about you are losing theirs - kinda thing. After 20 or so minutes, you will find your breathing takes you to a whole new level, into what I term as Meditational mode. Your anger, hatred and stress, seem to all wash away, leaving you feeling relaxed and refreshed. And, after the shower and the sit down, you will feel even more on top of the world.

Running/ Jogging, whatever you want to call it, is independent. You can go solo, talk to nobody, and run and stop for however long you want without having to listen to anyone except, maybe, your music.

Requirements;

I suggest a stay-dry T-shirt, Warm top, etc. Shoes, buy a pair of runners but don't go overboard with the price; remember the Army run 30/40miles in leather Boots and backpack - get my meaning? You don't have to spend a lot. Ps; January sales are coming up. Get yourself a bum bag and a water bottle which fits neatly inside it, with pockets for your keys, your mobile - if health gives out. Take gloves and a hat if required. Buy good plasters and apply them before your run on the parts of your feet prone to blisters, especially if running Long Distance. Drink herbal teas before your run - helps with hydration; green tea and ginger with honey, is what I have, but its up to you. Warm up exercises are important and warming down, also - helps limbo up and stretch those long unused muscles - you might pull a muscle or two - be careful. Keep to a diet - not always strict. Eat proteins, stay away from high Carbs and Calories. If you smoke, cut down. If you drink, cut down. You don't need to go "Cold Turkey" no pun intended, just because your are going on a fitness regime in the New Year, you don't need to give up every little bit of delight. Balance is important. Balance is the key.

Ps; I give no names. I advertise nothing but Running itself. I do not promote anothers products (Market Affiliate) stuff. Unless the price is right.

There are lots of things I can say about running as a way to fitness, to strength, to an increase in energy, and a flat stomach; yes, more to say about a better immune system, and blood circulation; to losing weight and, overall, looking and feeling damn fantastic with oneself, but for now, well, I'll just say 'Happy Running. Enjoy it!'

See you in Prague - sometime.

   TWOPINS