Running is probably the most recommended exercise. Doctors, trainers, and almost everyone knows about the common benefits that this exercise provides. It builds both physical and mental strength. It is a way to stay in shape and also ward off anxiety and stress.
Why is it so good for you?
Aside from the plethora of health benefits, this exercise also does not cost you that much. You can just put on your shoes, wear comfortable and light clothes, maybe grab a bottle of water, and head out.
Although there is very little equipment, you would want the best running gear for you. As you get more into running, you will start to feel the need for more equipment. If you get into trail running, then you might want to switch to more durable running shoes. For longer distance running, you might want to carry a bag as well.
The best deal you need to make will definitely be for your shoes as they are the most important aspect of your entire plan.
You can find the best fits and designs for you by looking on the internet. There are tons of websites that cover different aspects of running. It might take some time to find your preferred ones. After a bit of personal research, you will eventually follow helpful websites. Sites like this one will improve your knowledge about running.
Here are 10 amazing benefits of running
1. Reduces stress, brings relaxation and peace
Running not only builds your muscles, but it also builds heart health and can remove anxiety in people. Regular running has proven to relieve stress. For a lot of people, running is the best form of releasing stress.
2. Stimulates productivity
Whether you run at home on your treadmill or running in the neighborhood, it helps you be more productive. It’s an active exercise that increases your stamina and endurance over time hence making you more productive throughout your entire day.
3. Helps you sleep better
Exercise causes physical tiredness, and that tiredness ends with deep sleep, which is best for physical restoration. Deep sleep can enhance our immune system and support our cardiac health, which lowers anxiety. Deep sleep helps with other sleep disorders as well.
Although too much physical exercise can also be a cause for sleep deprivation, we should exercise routinely.
4. Makes you optimistic and strong
Running is kind of like a feel-good exercise. First, it might get a bit strenuous for you if you haven’t done any prior exercise and suddenly decide to run a long distance. You might not make it that far, but then you try again and again, and suddenly you realize you are hooked; plus it makes you feel refreshed and happy as well.
The more you practice, the longer you run, and the better you will feel. Running is a great way to clear your mind and fill it with tranquility. It helps you be more active and stay sharp as well.
5. Become more confident
Running can help you become competitive. You don’t have to race others. You can race yourself. Each time you go out for a run, you can time yourself. Set goals and try to beat them. Set longer distances, faster sprint times, and try to beat your own record. Even without all that, as you run, you increase endurance. That automatically increases your self-esteem and confidence. You start to believe in your abilities a bit more every day.
6. Frees the joints and gains muscle
Pain in joints happens to everyone at some point or another. But people who are accustomed to physical exercise are less prone to joint pains at an earlier age. Running strengthens your knees and helps in strengthening your ligaments. Running also does not increase the chance of getting osteoarthritis. In fact, it makes you stronger against it and is also a killer workout for your lower body part including your core, calves, and legs.
7. Decreases the chances of cognitive decline.
Running is not a remedy for Alzheimer’s, but it can help delay or reduce cognitive decline, which starts after the age of 45 for a lot of people. Running is a great workout for your entire body, and this intensity can boost the chemicals flowing in the brain that work to decrease the deterioration of the Hippocampus, which is partly responsible for our memory and learning ability.
8. Enables your brain to be more active
The more you try using your brain, the better and faster it will work. But your brain doesn’t only respond to reading books and solving analytical problems. Physical exercise is a good way to keep your brain active as well. Running keeps most of your muscles in motion, hence activating your brain more.
Aside from the physical exercise, outdoor running allows you to take in fresh oxygen which is also good for the brain. Overall, it boosts the power of the brain.
9. Helps you maintain shape
The number one reason why people run is to lose fat. A lot of people run as a part of some sort of cardio, but most do it to burn calories, lose weight, or maintain weight. Running is the most effective exercise for all of these. The after burn you get after a serious run works even after the exercise hence, burning more calories.
10. Getting outdoors gives a dynamic experience
Running always gives you a different experience. You can pick a different time and a different route to run as well. You can wake up early and start before dawn or you can even run at night. Run in your neighborhood, a nearby park, or anywhere else. Each experience will change as you discover new places to run through.
The Bottom Line
Running is sometimes like an escape route to gather your mind, thoughts, and focus so you come back stronger than before and face the world head-on with more confidence.
Getting outdoors is wonderful and good for longevity. Here’s why.
About the author:
Shawn Richards is a content writer at FeedFond. He’s a doting father not only to his two children but also to his two Golden Retrievers.
Article Reference:
Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925
