People start to run for different reasons. There are those who want to lose weight, improve their fitness, participate in road races or try something new. Whatever your reason for running, you will experience many physical, mental and emotional benefits from the sport.
Here are 10 great reasons to start running:
1. Running improves your health
One of the biggest benefits of running is that it is very good for your health. Running is a great way to strengthen your heart and keep blood and oxygen circulating efficiently through the body, which reduces the chances of a heart attack. Exercise, combined with maintaining a healthy weight, is one of the best ways to naturally lower your blood pressure if it is above normal. If you have high cholesterol, running can help keep it stable. Running also improves the immune system, so your bodily functions are more efficient against bacteria. Running and other maintenance sports increase bone density, which can prevent osteoporosis.
2. You can lose weight
Many people start to run to lose the extra pounds. Being one of the most vigorous sports, running is an extremely effective way to burn calories and lose weight. If you already have a healthy weight, running can help you maintain it. Just be careful that running doesn’t give you a go at eating anything. The rule of thumb for weight loss, that you need to burn (basics and exercise) more calories than you consume, also applies to runners.
3. You can run for a cause
Running can also be used to contribute to a social cause. Several races benefit charities, and other charities offer races in exchange for fundraising. Running for something bigger than yourself is a great way to stay motivated to stick with a workout and can even give your runs a sense of accomplishment.
4. You can meet people while running
Some runners enjoy the silence and solitude of running on their own, but others see running as a social opportunity. Finding a running partner or group goes a long way in developing a sense of community. You can set goals and objectives for yourself and accomplish them together. Plus, having a regular running partner or group is one way to stay motivated to run.
Some runners share tips and advice with each other in online forums. You can share your obsession with running, celebrate your triumphs, and help you pass your obstacles.
5. You can experience something new and different
Running is a great way to broaden your horizons and break out of your daily routine. This sport offers the opportunity to discover the region of other communities and new locations, experiences and physical sensations while running in places that are not often seen.
6. You can train for a specific goal
Most people hate to train with the mere idea of exercising, but with running you can train for runs, from 5k to marathon and more. Training for a race gives you a specific goal to aim for and work towards, which can definitely help you stay motivated to run.
7. Running improves your energy level
When you are feeling tired and slack, running is a solution to consider for your energy. Runners who run in the morning report feeling much more energetic during the day. By combining jogging with a healthy diet, you ensure an optimum energy level
8. Running will help you love yourself more
Regular runners report an increase in their confidence and self-esteem, and the self-esteem benefit of running is increased if you set and complete goals and objectives, such as a 5k or a marathon.
9. Running is versatile and inexpensive
Running requires little equipment, and can be done almost anywhere. All you need is a good pair of shoes, and you can walk through your door to take off. From urban sidewalks to forest trails, there are so many places to discover, at little cost. If you travel a lot, it’s easy to carry a pair of shoes so you can run and discover something new.
10. Running can relieve stress
Running, like many other sports, is a great remedy for stress, emotional irritation, and even mild depression. Research shows that adults who exercise regularly are generally happier than those who don’t.
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