What I Think About When I Think About Running
I recently started running again at the gym after renewing my gym membership. My plan was to run for 1 hour without stopping, after months of not running. Ultimately I ran for 45 minutes at a pace of 4 miles per hour. A slow pace, but it got the job done. Afterwards, I had runner’s high for a solid amount of time, and I hadn’t felt that happy for a long time.
There are so many benefits to running. From weight loss to endurance and stamina to longevity and reduced stress and depression, running has myriad effects on your overall well being and health. One research study showed that running for 30 minutes has the same affect as antidepressants do on your mental health. I’ve noticed that — after running 45 minutes, I felt so happy and clearheaded afterwards.
Here are some of the top benefits running offers:
Reduced stress — helps lower cortisol, the stress hormone and releases endorphins to give “runner’s high”
Improved mental clarity — helps with focus and concentration and memory
Combats depression — Regular running has the same effect as moderate antidepressants
Burns calories — Assists with fat loss and weight loss
Improved cardiovascular health — strengthens heart, reduces cholesterol, lowers blood pressure
Improved immune system — helps fight illness
Strengthens muscles and bones — builds muscle and increases bone density
Improves sleep — deeper, longer sleep
Boosts metabolism - the longer and more you run, the more efficiently your body burns calories even at rest
Increases longevity — regular runners live longer, healthier lives
Hope this list gives you reasons to start running — today!
