A lot of problems you face in life can be solved by running.
Trust me.
Many people say they can’t run or don’t run, but that only means they have never fully experienced what running has to offer.
Those who discount running are only missing out.
Although I am a runner now, I haven’t always been, and I can say I was definitely among those who doubted the benefits and appeal of running.
Until I started running.
Then my world changed for the better, and it’s a gift that would hurt not to share and be a shame for you not to try.
There are an abundance of reasons to start running, and here are a few of the best:
Anyone can run
The beauty of running is that there is no definition of how fast to run.
If you run at a 12-minute pace or a 5-minute pace, it’s all still running.
You also don’t need to run that much to receive the benefits – 50 minutes a week is all you need.
No matter your fitness level, running is a mental sport, and if you can push your mind to go that extra mile, your body will follow.
It requires no specific skills or training like other sports do. The basics of what you need to know can be found easily online.
Effective way to stay physically healthy
Studies have shown that being an active runner reduces risk of breast and colon cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and stroke.
Running is one of the best ways to burn calories.
You will be more inclined to eat healthier. Your diet is reflected in how you feel when your running, and I’ve found that the more active you are, the more you want to treat your body right in other aspects of your life.
Running works your whole body and builds muscle in your legs and core.
You will get a better nights sleep, both from working your whole body while running and from having time to clear your head.
“Many dedicated long-term runners do not run because they want to live longer, they run because it makes them feel better on a daily basis. There is a mood elevating, quality-of-life benefit that comes from being a regular exerciser,” says Dr. Michael Baggish, the Director of the Cardiovascular Performance Program at the Massachusetts General Hospital Heart Center.
Effective way to stay mentally healthy
Studies have shown that running helps eliminate depression and anxiety.
It’s a great way to relieve stress. Something about running a fast mile just lets out all the tension.
It’s a great time to just clear your mind.You’re alone and have nothing to do but think.
A “runner’s high” is a real experience caused by the endorphins and endocannabinoids that the body releases during cardiovascular activity that will make you feel like you could run forever.
Those same endorphins and endocannabinoids will stick around after your run and boost your mood for the day, too.
You’ll get a major confidence boost
Running isn’t something you need a team member for, it’s something you do all on your own and something you can be proud of accomplishing.
Your body will be more toned and fit, and when you look good, you feel good.
Running can provide the perfect amount of competition – whether you like the thought of pushing yourself to beat someone in a race or just like the the thought of never having to compete against anyone on a long run.
If you can do this, you can do anything
You will become a stronger person physically and mentally. Other exercises won’t seem as difficult and difficult times in your life will be easier to tackle after pushing yourself so often when you run.
It may sound silly but if you can run for 30 minutes you can sit through your least favorite class or that boring work meeting for 50 minutes.
by Maggie Vickrey
CougarBuzz 