Monday, June 24, 2013

Running: The Benefits

Hello again! It seems like I haven’t written in a while, but I have been busy writing elsewhere. Applying for jobs and finishing up publications takes a lot of work!

Anyway, today I’m going to continue the focus on running by sharing some benefits of running that you may or may not have heard. Of course, I’m sure there are lots that I've forgotten, so as always I love feedback! 

Running: The Benefits

  • Studies have shown the health benefits of running to be tremendous, reducing your chances of everything from the common cold to many types of cancer. Moreover, it is said to be among the best aerobic exercises for physical conditioning of your heart and lungs as running helps ensure the efficient flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body.  
  • Running, for many, is also a great stress-reliever. I personally tend to stress out before, during and after running, but I’m not ever normal!  Additionally, it may help to relieve mild depression as studies show that healthy adults who exercise regularly are generally happier than those who don't.
  • Many people run because they like to socialize and be part of a running community. Running clubs and charity training groups give people the opportunity to meet and train with other people and hopefully, form friendships. Some runners even participate in local events or travel to race destinations with their running buddies.
  • Running helps you improve your fitness, endurance and stamina all while increasing bone density. Back off osteoporosis!
  • Last, but at least (in my opinion) is running for weight loss. As one of the most vigorous exercises out there, running is an extremely efficient way to burn calories and drop pounds; average is about 100 calories per mile for a 150-pound person (find an exercise calculator to estimate for your weight). Running helps to build muscle mass too causing your resting metabolic rate to increase allowing you to burn more calories faster.


I know it was short, but hopefully sweet! Below is another great resource I found that lists running benefits.