Every single day, millions of people take time out of their day to go for a quick run or jog. Running is a popular activity that many people use to stay in shape and exercise. Participating in any category of physical activity is very important to stay in shape, and the benefits gained from exercise improve many aspects of people’s lives. Similar to other sports, running gives people many effects that will leave a strong and positive influence on their lives.
Running can improve the physical health of those who participate in this sport consistently, specifically with cardiovascular health. It significantly improves in people who run regularly and physically inactive people have a higher chance of getting cardiovascular disease. According to a study conducted at the American College of Cardiology, heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and running for only a few minutes a day can decrease the chance of getting heart disease by almost 50%. Other health complications such as diabetes and obesity can also be prevented by running, as it helps burn calories and fat and lowers blood sugar. Runners also grow stronger bones and muscles, especially in the lower body, which can help with many everyday activities like balance, core stability and posture.
“Running, even 5 to 10 min/day at slow speeds <6 miles/h, is associated with markedly reduced risk of deaths from all causes and cardiovascular disease,” said the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
The mental benefits gained through running also improve your daily life because it can improve moods and decrease stress. “Runner’s high” is a common term that many runners use to describe the feeling they get when they finish a run. The effects of the mentality often include improved mood, feeling more relaxed and having less stress or anxiety. Especially after a long day at work or school, running can be an outlet for many who need to relieve some stress. According to The Mayo Clinic, the production of endorphins can be increased while participating in physical activity. Endorphins are hormones that your brain releases that increase feelings of happiness, release stress and relieve pain. These hormones contribute to the feeling of “runner’s high” that comes after running.
“I do find that sometimes stress levels are high coming out of classrooms, getting out there for the warm up improves everyone’s mood, everyone comes back with a little bit more chattiness and a little bit more giggliness,” Walpole High School girls cross country coach Fiona Murphy said.
Running is also a very convenient sport to people who are not willing to spend a lot of time and money on an activity. Compared to other sports that require lots of expensive equipment or practice time, running needs very few pieces of equipment and only takes up a small part of someone’s day. Many runners find routes on sidewalks or streets that are easily accessible and near their homes. Parks and other public spaces are also often open to runners, which gives many people a place to go on a run without worrying about cars or using the crowded sidewalks. Running indoors is also possible, and many people use treadmills in their homes or at a gym. Although many people enjoy having a designated place to run, it does not matter where you go to run, as long as you are getting exercise from it.
Exercise may look different for many people and running is a common and valuable sport for people who are just starting to improve their health. The lasting results running leaves on mental and physical health is very noticeable, and will create a positive influence on your life.
