Here’s a quick list of why I think running is so great for the human body. Note: Do not start a regular exercise program unless you are healthy enough for physical activity. If in doubt, consult your physician.
Runner’s High
After running for some distance, running can actually become pleasurable. I’ve heard it said that this is due to a release of endorphins, but whatever the reasons, it genuinely feels good. The feeling of having just run is great.
Great Sense of Accomplishment
As you begin to see your distance increase, you’ll feel a great sense of accomplishment. When I first started to run, I could barely go for 1/4 mile. When I look back on that, it really feels like I’ve achieved something. My endurance is greater, my legs are stronger and I know I’m healthier.
Easy to See Growth
It is really easy to measure your progress in running. Whether you are working to increase you distance or increase your speed, benchmarking yourself is always a snap. I have a course marked out in my neighborhood and I know that once I’ve passed a certain intersection I’ve gone 1 mile. When I was first able to jog all the way through that intersection without stopping, I knew that I was hooked.
Great Way to De-stress
Running can clear my mind easier than almost anything. That is one reason why I like to run at the end of the day. After I get home from work, I’m usually fried from the day in the cubicle. But once I put on my shoes and start jogging, my mind becomes worry free. Instead of hassles and responsibilities, I focus on the road, my breathing, how my body feels, and how great the cool night air is. I always return home from jogging in a better mood.
Easy (no equipment, no gym)
Running is great because it’s so simple. There’s no equipment to buy or membership fees to keep up with. All you need is a pair of running shoes and some time. I can’t think of many sports that are so easy!
Helps Your Heart
Running is a great form of cardiovascular exercise. That is, it strengthens your heart by elevating the heart rate for a set amount of time. I come from a family of heart disease, so I know just how important this is. You really need to learn to take care of your body’s most important organ.
Burn Midsection Fat
Running is amazing at getting rid of fat. For some reason, running is particularly effective at getting rid of the fat over your belly. In just 3 months of running, my midsection has gone from a size 40 to 36. Of course, eating right is also helpful but I attribute most of the fat loss to my new running hobby.
Builds Muscle
Aside from burning fat, running is also great for building muscle. Over the last few months, I have watched my legs drastically change shape. Not only are they skinnier than they were 30 lbs ago, they are also starting to show more muscle. The wife says this is a plus.
Burns Calories
Running is simply excellent for burning calories. It is possibly one of the most effective exercises there are. I’ve been told that for the average person, running a mile burns about 200 calories. When you stop to think how much that really is, you can see why running is so great for you. When added to a regular healthy eating plan, there is no greater thing than regular aerobic exercise like running.
