Top 10 Reasons to Run
October 30, 2009 by Debra Wier
Filed under Fitness
Running is a popular activity that’s enjoyed by people of all ages. While everyone has different reasons for running, the health benefits of running are the enjoyed by all. Here are the Top Ten:
1. Weight Loss
Running is a great calorie burner and when combined with good eating habits can assist with fat loss and weight control. The key is to burn more calories than you consume.
Running also increases lean muscle which helps to increase metabolic rate.
2. Prevention of Osteoporosis
Weight bearing exercises such as running, help to reduce the loss of bone density, aiding in the prevention of osteoporosis.
3. Diabetes Prevention / Prevention of Diabetes
Running is a great cardiovascular workout and as such can help to prevent the onset of diabetes and lessen the symptoms of diabetes if you currently have the condition.
4. Strengthens Cardiovascular System
Your heart is a muscle and can benefit greatly from any exercise that increases your heart rate for an extended period of time Running can help to prevent heart attacks and also benefit your arteries. While running, your heart pumps harder to keep up with the body’s increased oxygen demands. This increases the pressure flowing through your arteries and clears of fatty deposits which might eventually block arteries.
5. Stress Reduction / Relief
Reducing stress is another great benefit of running. The intense physical activity aids in promoting better relaxation and also enhances sleep.
6. Improved Lung Capacity
Regular running increases the number of capillaries that supply oxygen to your lungs. As your lungs become more efficient your respiratory system improves over time.
7. Promotes a Sense of Well Being
Running promotes a better quality of life in many ways. When you are leaner and more healthy you just naturally feel better. When you are less stressed and more relaxed you feel better. Running also releases endorphins and can produce what is known as a runner’s high.
8. Easily Accessible and Inexpensive
Many sports are super expensive and require specialized equipment. Other activities may also require access to specific locations. This is not so with running. The only requirements of running are good running shoes, comfortable clothes, and safety.
9. Spend Time Outdoors
Running is a sport that encourages you to spend time outside. You can get your daily dose of Vitamin D and have a nice change of scenery at the same time.
10. Camaraderie
Running is a good group activity. It’s a great way to meet other runners and share in group workouts.
Join A Running Club
If you would like to meet others, share workouts, and socialize then you may want to join a running club. The 3D Running Club is a Fort Myers, FL running club that promotes running among athletes of all abilities and ages, to train and run all the year around with the help and support of others.
The 3D philosophy is one of dedication, discipline, and desire. If you would like to share the benefits of running with others, then 3D Running Club may be the club for you.
Debby Wier is an internet marketing specialist who blogs and writes articles on a wide variety of topics. Click here to check out the Fort Myers Running Club.
