The benefits of a committed exercise program are well known. Running, in particular, is an excellent way to reap myriad physical health, emotional health and social benefits. If you have the use of your legs and are able to walk without difficulty, then you are almost certainly able to run.
Why run?
• It’s practically free. Running requires no special equipment other than a decent pair of running shoes and, for women, a supportive sports bra.
• There are no new skills to master. Sure, your form and pace will improve with time, but anyone can get out there and lace up for the first time.
• You can do it anywhere, at any time: on vacation, when travelling to new places, at home, inside or outside, during all seasons and in most weather. Obviously, safety is a priority in terms of where, what time and with whom you run; even so, running is truly one of the most transportable forms of exercise around. So…No excuses!
What are the physical health benefits of running?
• Adopting a running regimen leads to:
– decreased body fat and weight and increased HDL cholesterol (the “good fat”) levels
– decreased blood pressure, risk of stroke and coronary heart disease, and incidence of diabetes
– reduced need for blood pressure and cholesterol lowering medications
– improved joint strength (especially knees), bone strength and prevention of osteoporosis
– improved cardiorespiratory aerobic fitness and a more defined and leaner physique
– increased resting metabolic rate and decreased appetite
• Cancer prevention. Ample evidence supports the cancer-busting benefits of running, including some of the worst cancers, such as colon, breast, endometrial and lung cancer. This is due in part to the boost in immune function and decrease in inflammatory diseases runners experience.
• Longer life span. Not surprisingly, people who adopt a long-term running exercise plan as part of their lifestyle can expect to live longer than sedentary non-runners.
What are the mental health benefits of running?
• Running is a great stress and anxiety reliever and may even help with mild depression and drug and alcohol addiction recovery.
• Smile! As a group, runners report being generally happier than non-runners do.
• “Runner’s high.” This energized, euphoric, clear and calm state experienced during and after a long run is related to increased body temperature and higher levels of the mood-elevating hormone dopamine.
• A boost in self-confidence, self-esteem and ego as a result of challenging oneself with long-term goals. Runners report feeling strong, capable and confident with more positive body image, as they set and achieve running goals. Your own goal may be to run one mile without stopping, while another’s may be to run a 26.2-mile marathon; either extreme is admirable and will make you feel great about how capable, determined, committed and amazing you are.
• Running solo can be a perfect opportunity to turn inward, spending quiet time with yourself contemplating and working out various issues in your life. In this way, longer distance running is a form of moving meditation for many.
What are the social benefits of running?
• Running is perfect for socializing in a healthy way with like-minded people. By joining a local running club, for example, you can find running partners, and build friendships and relationships with other people who share similar interests.
• Running together is a wonderful way to spend time and bond with your spouse, children, friends or other significant others.
• Road races are great way to benefit others through various fund raising efforts.
So…what are you waiting for?
Get off the couch, lace up your running shoes and hit the road. You’ll thank your runner-self later.
To find an excellent doctor who is right for you, please call our Physician Referral Service at 866.804.1007.