What’s your favorite exercise? Perhaps you’ve followed the patterns of the “exercise crazes” that seem to have developed over the years. Jazzercise? Aerobics? Spinning? Yoga? Pilates? Perhaps you’re a Richard Simmons fan or have been faithful to Billy Blanks and his successful Tae Bo enterprise. Any one of these forms of exercise can be fun and beneficial to your overall health and fitness. And now there’s a new craze to add to your list: wogging. So . . . what exactly is wogging?  Let’s take a look at this new fitness fad of 2008.

So . . . what exactly is wogging? 
It’s the catch phrase of 2008 for walking and running. Walk a little, run a little, walk a little, run a little. Along with being simple and inexpensive (no equipment required!), it’s also the perfect next step for walkers who would like to start running. 

The Benefits of Wogging
The benefits of wogging are astounding.  Not only do you get that cardiovascular workout that is recommended three times a week, you also get the chance to relax and just walk at a pace that suits you best.  It’s a great exercise for new moms to get back in shape too. Simply load up your little one in the stroller and hit the road.  Most kids become more relaxed being pushed along, and the fresh air and sunshine will do them a world of good as well.

What better way to stay in shape, tone your body and lose weight all at the same time!  You’ll also work your heart, keeping it healthy and strong.

Some of the noted benefits of wogging include:

• Loosening of the limbs
  
• Higher levels of agility
  
• Firmer balance when walking and running
  
• Increased energy levels
  
• Improved exercise performance
  
• Visible body reshaping

This latest craze in the fitness industry is also a fantastic way to also increase your bone density, thus lowering the chances of osteoporosis as you age.   It has been further reported that wogging will also decrease joint stress that is commonly associated with repetitive exercises. 

Should you be wogging?
It is suggested by professionals that those interested in taking up wogging as part of their exercise routine be at a level where they can walk for at least 30 minutes for a minimum of 5 days a week.  It is also important to wear the correct footwear to avoid any injuries to yourself.

How to Wog Correctly
When you are wogging, keep yourself in a relaxed position and avoid clenching your fists.  Rather, keep your arms around about lower waist level, with your eyes focused ahead.

If wogging is for you, start with the simple routine of a 4-5 minute walks interspersed with 2–3 minute jogs, gradually increasing your times as you build more stamina and become more confident.  Here are some tips to keep you on track.

• Prepare yourself by writing down your goal plan
  
• Make sure you have the correct running footwear before beginning your program
  
• Invite a friend to join you to keep up your level of commitment and motivation
  
• Keep a diary so that you can track your progress and see the visible changes

You choose the time, you choose the place and you choose the pace! The latest fitness craze for 2008 is here to stay, so remember, give yourself the opportunity to have fun getting fit and healthy while maintaining your goal of living a long active life!