Why Jogging Was So Dangerous In The 70s

As the boom in jogging escalated throughout the 1970s, new equipment was released in order to capitalise on the explosion. New designs of trainers and clothes were released, especially after the endorsement of running by Nike. These innovations were welcomed in running and remain a key aspect of the sport to this day. However, inventions such as air shorts and sauna suits increased the risks associated with running.

Air shorts, an inflatable garment to be worn around the lower torso were designed to help shed moisture from the body. Even after the change in attitudes towards jogging, had you worn these on your daily dose of roadwork, you would have no doubt been the source of much ridicule.

Inventions such as sauna suits continue to pose a risk to this day. The plastic onesie was designed to reduce air reaching the skin, and so would cause the body to sweat more. For those familiar with sweatboxes or the odd night chewing your face on the dance floor, the risks are clear. Hyperthermia causes skin rashes, exhaustion, and fainting. In severe cases, heatstroke is a possibility, which could be fatal. Furthermore, sweating obviously depletes the body of liquid, and dehydration is another potential outcome. If the body goes without hydration for too long, it can cause severe kidney damage and even death.

Sauna suits definitely have their benefits, but ample knowledge of correct use before trying one is advised.

Jogging is a common occurrence in this day and age. The health benefits trump the negatives substantially. And with more and more equipment available, alongside countless Couch to 5K apps encouraging more people to engage in the activity, it is clear jogging is here to stay. Jog on!