Running is one of the best exercises that you can do for your overall health. Sure, there are a lot of other workouts and exercises you can choose to enjoy, but none provide the cardiovascular improvements and other benefits like running. All you need is a good pair of running shoes, some comfortable clothes, and room to run as far as you would like. But what are some of the benefits of running and why should you consider lacing up those shoes and getting ready to run today?
Better Cardio Health
Your heart is one of your biggest assets. If it is in good working order, it can carry you on to a long and healthy life. But when it is worn out and not given the workout it needs, you can suffer from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Running can solve all of these health concerns and more, even if you can only do short spurts to begin.
Better Sleep
Do you struggle with getting enough sleep during the evening? Then you may find that running is a natural way to help fight off this problem. Quality sleep is important and aerobic exercise can make it easier to sleep as deep as you need. When you get cardio exercise, you release endorphins, which are chemicals that will help relieve pain and stress that may keep you up at night!
Improved Knee and Back Health
Are you worried about having aches and pains in your back and knees? Then starting a running routine will make a difference. In fact, one study done on 675 marathon runners found that they had lower rates of arthritis compared to other groups. If these problems run in your family, then it may make sense to consider running in your daily routine.
Better Memory
Everyone wants to have a strong memory throughout their lives. They don’t want to worry about decline or issues like dementia. Doing aerobic activities like running can actually help improve your memory. The reason for this is that when your heart rate goes up, which can boost the size of the hippocampus, which is the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory.
Better Mood and Energy
Who couldn’t benefit from being in a better mood and having more energy throughout the day? Whether you have a lot of deadlines that you need to meet quickly or you need to keep up with the kids all day long, energy will help you get through the day and feel amazing. When you participate in aerobic activities, including running, you get those feel-good endorphins going, which will make you feel happier while improving your energy levels, without the caffeine.
Whether you go on a quick run to build up your endurance or you are ready to build up to a marathon, running can be so amazing for your health. Start out today and build up over time to see some of the great benefits that come from running!