My 5 Top Reasons to Start Running Now

The other day I celebrated 8 years of “regular running”, so I thought I’d share with you a few of the reasons why I love running so much.

We all know that any kind of physical activity is good for our overall health. Why choose running over other types of exercise? Running is one of the most effective forms of exercise for weight loss, getting fit and staying in good health.

1. It’s practical and cheap (you can actually save some cash).

Almost anyone can do it, it’s that easy and accessible – there are no barriers to entry. Moreover, running doesn’t cost you anything. All you need is a good pair of shoes (trainers), really. No new skills to master, no expensive equipment to buy, just get out there and run.

If it’s your first time, you might want to start with walking instead and build up your speed and distance gradually.

2. It helps manage your weight & stay in shape.

Once you start running regularly, your body composition will change. You will lose fat and your lean muscle tissue will build up gradually. Running and other forms of cardiovascular exercise are a great way to increase your fitness because they raise your heart rate, giving your heart muscle an effective workout and improving your circulation. Increased aerobic capacity will make everyday activities easier, whether it is running to catch a bus or walking up the stairs.

3. It helps you build stronger bones. 

Regular running strengthens bones and in such a way it helps to prevent osteoporosis in women and the earlier you start it the more beneficial it will be for you. Running also strengthens muscles so it prevents muscle and bone loss that often occur with age in men and women.

4. Fights against diseases

Do you start having problems with your heart or high blood pressure? Running gives you a good cardio-vascular workout which is good for your overall health. One of the most well-known facts is that running is a great cardio-vascular exercise that will keep your heart strong and healthy for many, many years. Jogging reduces the risk of heart attack by strengthening the heart and lowering blood pressure over time.

Running also prevents and helps fight the early stages of dangerous diseases such as diabetes, breast cancer and hypertension.

5. It’s good for your mind too.

Running helps to lift up not only your physical health but also mental health. Go ahead and run half an hour and see for yourself if you don’t believe me. Any physical activity helps regulate the production of various brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. You may also feel better about your appearance and yourself when you exercise regularly, which can boost both, your confidence and self-esteem.

For instance, some people become more self-confident when they set a goal and then accomplish it (run half marathon, run 5 miles every day etc.) but running gives people an inner sense of confidence regardless.

Running does make you happier due to the fact that when your run hormones known as endorphins are released in your body that create a sense of euphoria that is also known as ‘runner’s high’.

Still not convinced? 🙂

But I love, simply, that I can do it. And I love that the human body is capable of such astonishing adaptations, that it can be pushed and pushed and still keep giving.

Supporting Research

• The Health Benefits of Regular Exercise
• Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms
• Osteoporosis prevention