So I have always enjoyed running (well mostly) as my go to form of cardio, it gives me time to clear my mind or think about things that I need to get done but most importantly it gives me results and helps balance my strength training routines. There are so many health benefits that you will get from running and in my opinion, it really is worth adding to your exercise regimen. In this post I will go over six great reasons to go running on a regular basis.
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Six health benefits of running.
1- Physical Health - Running is actually a great way to increase your overall level of health. Research shows that running can raise your levels of good cholesterol while also helping you increase your bodies lung function. In addition, running can also boost your immune system and lower your risk of developing blood clots as well as help reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease. Many doctors today recommend running for people who are in the early stages of diabetes, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis, and it is proven to help improve overall heart health by helping the arteries retain their elasticity and strengthening the heart.
2- Mental Clarity - Like I mentioned in the intro to this blog post, running really does wonders for your mental game! When you are out on a run and even when running indoors on a treadmill (to a lesser degree), you are able to disconnect a bit from your hectic routine and recharge your mind, just being outside and absorbing all the sights and sounds of where you are (especially if you are out on a trail or a beach, enjoying a more natural setting) but even if you are running your neighborhood streets, there is just this connection and perspective of where you are that allows you to think more clearly and enjoy more of a clear focus.
3 - Muscle Toning/Weight Loss - One of the things I love when I run consistently is how it keeps my body toned and feeling much better than if I do other forms of cardio. I don't know what it is about running but it just works for me and works quickly, I find that it is a great balance for any strength training routine. Additionally, if you are looking to lose some weight, then a consistent running routine (3-5 days a week) of course coupled with a healthy eating plan is going to get you to your weight loss goal. Just remember consistency is the name of the game here.
4 - Increased Energy - Have you ever noticed the difference in your energy levels before and after a good run? You might be tired from the workout; however, you will notice a significant difference in the amount of energy you have post run and remember this will continue well after you are done with your run.
5 - Improved Mood - Just like increased energy, you will almost always feel better mentally after you have finished a run! There's just something about getting out there and clearing your mind that does wonders for your mood. The post-run improved and relaxed mood may be due to endocannabinoids — biochemical substances similar to cannabis but naturally produced by the body. Running (and exercise in general) increases the levels of endocannabinoids in the bloodstream, endocannabinoids can move easily through the cellular barrier separating the bloodstream from the brain, where these mood-improving neuromodulators promote short-term psychoactive effects such as reduced anxiety and feelings of calm.
6 - Improved Sleep- Working out in general can help you to sleep better but adding running to your routine can definitely add to getting a better night's sleep. Running can help reduce stress and anxiety which can be detrimental to getting a good night's sleep, this improved mood plus the fact that physical activity tires the body and therefore increases your sleep drive over time.
So, there are the six reasons for you to add running to your weekly routine! Even if you can only spare just a couple days a week at first, you will still start to see these benefits pretty quickly and hopefully be able to up your mileage once you are able!
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