Running is one of the most popular athletic activities for both fitness and fun. Although it can be challenging and exhausting, men and women run every day for a variety of reasons. Some of the most significant benefits of the sport are health-related. Improving heart health is one of the biggest motivators for people who choose to start running. Many people also begin a training program to lose weight and better their mental health.
When people discover that they have a heart issue such as high blood pressure, doctors often recommend running to help alleviate the condition. The activity makes the arteries expand and contract, which keeps them elastic and lowers blood pressure, among many other benefits.
Running is more potent in creating positive results when there is day to day consistency. Training should build up gradually—depending on an individual’s fitness level—to ensure desired results.
It’s possible to lower blood pressure in as little as a few weeks with a consistent running routine. An individual’s resting pulse will also lower as one begins to run more. Many people prefer running over medications to treat their heart issues because it is a natural way to become healthier.
Running is a recommendation for both men and women who need to lose weight as it burns calories quickly and efficiently compared to many other athletic activities. It also curbs appetite, burns fat, and helps create lean muscle with a healthy diet.
When people notice themselves becoming more fit as a result of running, it can boost their mood and self-esteem which are immensely helpful for individuals struggling with depression.
Running can help people relax comfortably in their downtime, establish better sleep patterns, and feel more energized in doing daily activities.
Furthermore, it is an excellent method for treating addiction because it can serve as a medium for people to escape their troubles and release stress in a healthy way. People can also make new friends by joining a running club in their community.
There are tremendous benefits to running, and it can be a fun and rewarding activity for everyone.
The following links can provide more helpful information on the health benefits of running:
USA track & field: USATF has plenty of information on professional running and resources for runners.
Benefits of running for women: This essay describes how running is helpful for women from a scientific perspective.
7 benefits of regular physical activity: The Mayo Clinic outlines how exercise such as running is healthy.
Put those shoes on: Running won’t kill your knees: NPR looks at how running affects knee health.
Running improves health, benefits others: Lacing up to run provides social benefits as well as health benefits.
Running and jogging: Health benefits: Regular running or jogging can do a lot to improve your health according to this page.
Road runners club of America: Looking for a running club or event? This site can help.
Barefoot running: Does it prevent injuries?: Barefoot running may benefit certain individuals, but it does not prevent or reduce injury rates in runners.
