Daily Fit Tip: Avoid overuse injuries while running

Along with walking, running/jogging is probably one of the easiest ways to get in shape and stay healthy because it doesn't take any special training or equipment other than a good pair of shoes. You do have to be careful not to hurt yourself by overdoing it, though, because overuse injuries are easily prevented but commonly seen in runners. Here are some tips to keep it safe while running:

• Don't increase your running distance more than 10% each week.
• Run on flat even ground, preferably with some "give" to it
• Stop if you feel pain. Ice the area and don't run again until the pain is gone.
• Alternate longer or harder runs with lighter days of jogging
• Keep your running shoes in good shape and replace them every 500 miles for maximum shock absorption