The Top 5 Health Benefits Of Running

Running or jogging is considered to be one of the most effective and least expensive ways to get fit and stay fit. Whether you opt for outdoors running or indoor treadmill running there are several reasons why this form of exercise is so good for you. And if you have been thinking about taking up running these reasons may just give you all the inspiration you need to get up and get going.

1. Running is a great way to lose weight

If you want to lose weight then running is possibly the best form of exercise you can take. Weight loss results can be seen quickly if you take up running because fat loss will be rapid. As long as you combine your running program with a healthy, low fat diet you should soon see the results of your efforts.

You may also find you can actually eat MORE once you start running as it’s such an effective way to burn calories but this means more of the good stuff like fruit, vegetables and healthy grains and NOT cakes and sweets!

2. Running promotes healthy muscles and bones

Running helps to prevent the muscle and bone loss that is a natural part of the aging process. Running is a high-impact, weight-bearing form of exercise meaning that it helps to build strong, healthy bones. This is important if we want to avoid conditions like osteoporosis in the future.

If we become too inactive bones become weakened and muscle strength decreases. Bone reacts to weight-bearing exercise by causing new bone tissue to form, therefore making the existing bone stronger.

3. Running helps us to fight off illness and disease

Running gives your body a good cardio-vascular workout and this can be helpful in the prevention of heart disease and cardio-vascular related conditions such as heart attack and stroke. Running also helps to strengthen the arteries and heart and can reduce blood pressure.

And it’s not just cardio-vascular diseases that are helped by running, studies suggest that running can help to prevent breast cancer and doctors frequently recommend jogging to patients who are in the early stages of diabetes, hypertension or osteoporosis.

4. Running can improve your mental health

Running can help to lift your spirits as well as improve your physical health. When you run you stimulate the production of endorphins in your body, which is why runner’s sometimes get what is known as a runner’s ‘high’. Many people who run say they love to do so quite simply because it makes them feel fantastic. Feeling good combined with the fact that many runners are happier with their bodies and weight leads to increased self-confidence. Running is also a good way to relieve stress and built-up tension

5. Running is sociable and can make you a better person!

Well, what we mean by ‘better person’ is that many charity events centre on running so sponsored runs or marathons can be a great way to make money for your favourite charity. This makes you feel good on two levels, the fact being that you have achieved a personal running goal and also helped other people in the process.

Many community events and fun runs are also organised meaning that you can meet other people or get the children involved. You can also join a running club and meet other people who share your love of running. Studies have shown that those who are involved in regular sociable group activities are healthier and happier.