Jogging in place is, essentially, exactly what it sounds like. It is when the body and legs are moved in a similar manner as if a person is jogging, but without moving from one set point. This is not the same thing as running on a treadmill, where it feels to the body as if it is actually going somewhere.
When a person jogs in one place, it does get the heart rate up, making it an aerobic activity. It can be an effective way to burn calories, lose weight, and increase physical fitness. Despite this, many people do not recommend jogging in place as a regular source of exercise. It uses different muscle groups than true running or jogging, and will typically not prepare anyone for sustained distance running or jogging either outside or on a treadmill.
To get the most benefits from this exercise, it is necessary for the individual to perform the exercise correctly. The best method is to lift the knees one at a time, straight up, and as high as possible, similar to jumping. The person should not simply stand and kick the feet out behind the legs. If he jogs in place by lifting the knees rapidly, the heart rate will quickly increase, and aerobic benefits will begin. Many people find it helpful to time themselves when exercising, as well as to regularly check their heart rate, both to see where improvements need to be made and to see progress.
A person might jog in place at a stoplight while running outside, for instance. This is a way to ensure the heart rate does not drop while waiting to continue moving. Of course, one of the main benefits of jogging in place is that the exercise can be performed entirely indoors. This means it that is not necessary for the exerciser to use much special gear, aside from supportive sneakers and workout clothing. He is also able to avoid the elements outside.
Most fitness experts recommend jogging in place as only one part of an exercise routine that contains other aerobic and strength activities. Jumping rope, dancing, crunches and bicycle crunches, squats, leg lifts, lunges, weight lifting, and even aerobic kickboxing are all exercises that can be performed inside in a relatively limited space. Including a variety of exercises as part of a varied routine ensures that the entire body is worked out, and it also helps to prevent boredom. Individuals should remember to keep the arms moving as well.