By admin on July 20, 2011 at 6:21 pm
There are so many reasons why we run, but these are simply the top ten running benefits. Running is the type of exercise that is excellent for numerous reasons. These include building your immune system, gaining confidence, and improving heart health.
What is your favorite benefit of running? This answer will differ between runners, simply because there are so many great running benefits. The reason that you run might be the great runners high, the act of staying healthy, or something completely unique.
You may have reasons why you dislike running. It can feel downright boring sometimes. But if you keep the benefits in perspective, you will soon realize that the benefits are reason enough to get out and exercise. Whenever you may be having doubts, review this list and remember why we love running so much!
1) Relieve Stress
Stress comes in many forms. Whether it is caused by work or a relationship, get out and run. You will keep better immediately.
There is something about being outside, and alone with my thoughts that really allows me to think through anything that’s bothering me, and I always feel less stressed afterwards. Better yet, if you are feeling overly stressed, take out your aggression by running sprints.
Running Benefit #2 – Lose Weight
Whenever you get out and run, you are taking a step in the right direction of weight loss. As a matter of fact, you will burn more calories per minute by running than most other sports. Whether you want to lose a couple pounds, or have set your eye on a bigger goal, you have made the right choice by deciding to run.
Benefit of Running 3 – Prevent Future Bone Loss
Our body is made to adapt to the activities and strains that we make it endure. Most people do not have the luxury of moving around during the day and are required to work sitting down. This is why running and getting exercise is so important. By incorporating a regular run into your routine, you can fight off weaker bones, and maintain a healthy skeletal system.
Running Benefit #4 – Improve Heart Health
If you are looking for a great way to improve you heart health, running is your best choice. Running improves your heart health by increasing your HDL cholesterol (that’s the good kind), opposed to LDL. Running strengthens your heart, and as a result, lowers blood pressure. That is not it! Running will also help your arteries by making them less rigid, a common health issue amongst individuals.
5) Immune System Improvement
Running naturally produces more white blood cells (WBCs), which are used to fight disease in the body. It also promotes the use of almost half of your lung capacity that otherwise goes unused.
Benefit of Running 6 – Runners High
Once you experience a runners high, you will be wondering why you never engaged in running in the past. It doesn’t matter if you are having a really tough day. Get outside and go for a run. The feeling you get will surely make you feel better. It releases endorphins that cause a feeling of euphoria, and a general sense of happiness. In fact, running has long been used to treat depression and several kinds of addiction. Patients often reported feeling less tension, fatigue, and depression after implementing a routine run into their daily lives.
7) Minimize Disease
Not only has running been reported to reduce your chances of heart attack, breast cancer and stroke, it has also helped people who are at high risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, and hypertension.
Get Coordinated
Have you ever wanted to be one of those people with great coordination? Try adding running to your workout routine. Running is one of the best ways to improve your overall coordination, allowing you to impress your family and friends.
The best advice is to run outside. You will encounter surfaces that are uneven. These naturally strengthen your ankle and leg muscles. Plus, you naturally improve the ability to control your body over these tough surfaces. You will be stronger on each following run.
9) Build Your Confidence
No matter how you view athletes, if you decide to get outdoors and run, you are an athlete. You will quickly see a change in your overall body strength and ability to exercise for longer periods of time.
Take on these challenges and prove to yourself that you can do it. Your self belief is a key cornerstone for long term exercise and health. If you are seeing your body change, and losing weight as a result of running, a gain in confidence is sure to follow.
It is an amazing feeling to finish that first race (or that tenth, for that reason). The camaraderie that you feel amongst your fellow runners will inspire your next race.
10) You Are An Athlete
The great part of running is you can do it anywhere. No matter where you live, make running a part of your life. Running will allow you to become that athlete you once were, or perhaps the one you always wanted to be. Running is a great choice for those individuals who want to take charge of their health. Start running and become the best you can be.
With running, you don’t need a gym membership, or expensive equipment. No matter where you live, make running a part of your workout routine. You will be amazed at how you feel. Make the best decision of your life and become a running athlete. You will impress yourself.
So what are you waiting for? Get yourself a new pair of shoes and a running training schedule and hit the road. The running benefits are yours to take.
Start your new running plan today with your FREE training program at RunPals.com. Come Run With Us!
