Why Running is Good for You

There are all kinds of reasons to start running, some of which may surprise you! There are, in fact, both health-related and non-health-related reasons to run. Here are some of them.

Weight Loss

Perhaps one of the biggest reasons people run is to lose weight. As long as you are burning more calories than you are consuming, weight loss usually results – and you can burn those extra calories running. In fact, studies have shown that running can burn up to 865 calories in an hour – that’s more than a stationary bike or a rowing machine!

Muscle Tone

Running builds muscle tone in your legs and lower body, and it also helps your bones stay strong. As long as you have normal joints, practice good form and have an OK from your doctor, you can expect running to boost your bone and joint strength.

Cardiovascular Health

Cardio workouts are considered an integral part of any fitness routine, and some say that running is the ultimate cardio workout. Your heart will, of course, beat harder and faster when you run. The heart is a muscle, and it needs a good workout, too! You may find that your resting heart rate decreases as your heart becomes more efficient.

Stamina and Energy

You build overall stamina with running, because it is a full-body, cardio workout. The stamina you build will serve you in other areas of life – parenting, energy at work, and in personal pursuits. Increased energy is also said to be a positive effect of running, and we can all use that!

Relationships

If you run with a group in your neighborhood, or with a coach, or otherwise out and about with other people, you will end up forming relationships with other runners. You already have a common interest – running – and you may find some truly deep friendships among other runners.

Role Model

You may not realize it, but as you commit to running and stick with it, others will see your progress and perhaps be inspired to run themselves. From family members to colleagues, a successful running routine can inspire others.

Low Cost

When many of us think of getting in shape, expensive gym memberships and equipment purchases come to mind. But running really doesn’t involve a lot of special equipment; shoes are the only thing you’ll need, and depending on your needs, they don’t have to be expensive.