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Is it safe to jog on in a high traffic area? I've heard it can be really bad for the lungs. Should joggers avoid streets? Maybe stick to parks instead? But, what if you live in a city?
Well, not only do you have to worry about the fact that in a high traffic area there's more pollution in the air from the car but that it's not really safe because of the fact that cars are close enough to pose a threat. Especially in my old neighborhood (I lived in Putnam, Conneticut) it was really a risk walking on the streets because there were always drunk drivers or just overall careless people who sometimes drove on the sidewalks and in a few instances, killed people in the act.
Parks are not only usually a little bit safer and cleaner, but they're a prettier and more appealing area to jog. Cities usually have some sort of recreational area or park around where people can go to exercise or walk their pets, etc. Just look around in your area and ask some friends.
Check with your local High Schools and Middle Schools to see if they have a track where you can jog. That way you can see how far you are jogging as it is a quarter of a mile around the track but my favorite place in in a park. It's a more scenic surrounding and not as boring as running in circles.
I agree with Nero, he makes a lot of good points.
Another reason why joggers should avoid streets is the impact of the ground. Pavement is a lot more unforgiving on your legs and knees than a softer impact ground like a sandy or dirt path.
