The Health Benefits Of Running
Running is addictive. Speak to anyone who is a runs or jogs regularly and you will find that everyone has different motivations. Some run to keep their weight down, or to help them lose weight. Others run because it makes them feel happier and healthier. Some people run because they feel it is good exercise.
Every runner uses these motivations to help them stay on track with their routines. Any physical activity you can stick with is a good one. It just seems that a lot of people run and do so with regularity. Well, the fact is, running has a lot of benefits. Here's a list of some of the best.
Good Health. One of the biggest benefits of running is that it is good for you. It keeps your heart healthy, it increases your metabolism, and it in general keeps your body looking and feeling healthy. It also increases your sex drive.
Lose Weight. Another benefit of running is that it can help you lose weight. For those who are already at a healthy weight, it can help you maintain it. Just make sure to keep your calorie intake at a healthy level. Runners are not immune to gaining weight if they take in too many calories.
Better Moods. Running simply makes you feel good. It can improve your mood and give you an overall sense of well being. The physical activity activates the right hormones to improve your mood. That means that even if you run while something is bothering you, by the end of your run, you will feel a lot better.
Get Rid of Stress. Stress is a big problem in our society. We rush around from activity to activity without really taking time out for ourselves. Since running makes us healthier, it is no surprise that it can also help us deal with stress. And there is more to it than just a chemical reaction. Running gives us some much needed quiet time. That alone can help lower stress.
Increased Self Esteem. Regular runners report an increase in their confidence and self esteem. And the self esteem benefits of running are increased if you set a goal and accomplish. For example, if you set a goal to run a marathon and then make it across the finish line, the confidence gained from a goal accomplished is worth it. But you don't need to set a goal or run a race to experience this. Running gives people an inner sense of confidence regardless.
Sense of Community. Some people prefer to run alone. They enjoy the quiet and solitude. However, some would rather use their running time to get social. Choosing a running buddy or running with a club or group is a great way to develop a sense of community with your running. You can set goals and accomplish them together. Plus, having at least one running buddy is a great motivator.
Author: Gray Rollins
Gray Rollins is a featured writer for The Runners Guide. To learn more about the health benefits of running and running for weight loss, visit us.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com