Running is a sport that you can do almost anywhere with the only equipment that you require being a determined mind, moisture-wicking clothes, and a decent pair of running shoes. Besides being inexpensive and convenient, going for regular runs provides a number of great health benefits. Nowadays, more people are taking part in marathons and 5k races than ever before. There are also a large number of people who simply run for fun and to stay fit, and do not go anywhere near a starting line.
Why I Love Running
The main reason why I love running is because it gives me the feeling that I can accomplish anything. It satiates my longing for adventure and allows me to clear my mind. When I am out for a run, all the thoughts and problems that have been swirling around in my mind the whole day disappear, and I feel freer than usual. If I have a problem that I need to solve, I often find that it is easier for me to come up with a solution after I have finished my run. My thinking ability is always at its best when I have just run a good few kilometres.
The Health Benefits of Running
People run for different reasons, but whatever it is that motivates them to run, there are physical and psychological benefits to running that cannot be denied. First, I shall highlight some of the physical benefits of going for regular runs:
- It helps to fight aging by preventing bone and muscle loss that come with aging
- Decreases the chance of heart attacks by strengthening your heart, lowering your blood pressure, and keeping your arteries healthy
- Raises HDL, which is the healthy cholesterol
- Boosts your immune system by creating high levels of white blood cells to attack foreign bodies
- You lose around 100 calories for every mile that you jog, meaning it is a great way to lose weight
As I said above, running is something that has psychological benefits too. Many runners will experience an intense level of euphoria and exhilaration, which is often called a “Runner’s High”. This high comes about as a result of released endorphins that flood the bloodstream when you are exerting yourself. Below I have listed some other major psychological benefits of running:
- Improves your confidence when you reach your running distance goals
- Relieves stress and gives you the ability to cope with your problems easier
- Gives you a positive outlook and a sense of happiness
- Your self-esteem will be boosted when you see changes to your body, like a loss of weight
So, if you run already, these are a few reasons why you should carry on doing so. If you are the type of person that hates the thought of running around the block by yourself, then try and find a friend who will join you one your runs. If none of your friends are willing to go running with you, then try and find a personal trainer that you can hire to run with you as well as help you with other types of workouts. Okay, you will have to pay them, but please trust me when I say that it will be worth it in the long run. Besides, you can find some very reasonably priced personal trainers nowadays.
I am not saying that running is something that is going to solve all of your issues in life, it will not, but I promise that you will reap a variety of great health benefits and will feel a sense of accomplishment deep down.