Three Great Reasons to Take Up Running

Studies have shown that the health benefits of running can be dramatic. Running boosts the immune system, helping to fight off everything from the common cold to cancer.

Studies have shown that the health benefits of running can be dramatic. Running boosts the immune system, helping to fight off everything from the common cold to cancer. Running gets the blood flowing which has been proven to decrease the risk of a heart attack. It is also great on mental well-being as it releases feel-good endorphins. Need more convincing? Here are three main reasons why it's a great idea to take up running:

1. Encourages weight loss

Running is one of the most vigorous exercises around making it an extremely efficient way to burn calories and drop weight. On average, for a 65 kg person, running burns approximately 100 calories. Running also builds muscle mass, which means your resting metabolism will rise making you burn calories easier, even at rest.

2. Is a major stress buster

Running boosts the body's energy and hormones, waking it up and making it feel alive. Stress is a key factor in health problems in today's fast-paced environment and a major cause of ill health.  Running can help reduce the impact. It's also a fantastic way to keep your mind positive. Running causes your brain to secrete feel-good hormones, so even after only a few minutes of running you will begin to feel good. If you are experiencing mild depression, forcing yourself to get up and run can dramatically lift your spirits.

3. Improves overall health

Overall health is proven to improve from running. Research has shown that running improves lung function, reduces the risk of having a stroke, and can raise the levels of good cholesterol in the body. Running will boost your immune system helping to keep your body fighting fit against viruses and infections. Research has even shown that running can actually help lower the risk of breast cancer in women.

If you are feeling convinced about taking up running, keep a few things in mind. Make sure you are in general good health to begin with. If you have any concerns, then visit your doctor first. Make sure that you purchase a good pair of running shoes and wear cool comfortable clothing. Always keep hydrated, so ensure that you have water with you when running. Start off a running regime slowly and run with good running form. If you are unsure how to run correctly then find an experienced running partner to help you, join a running group, or hire a professional trainer to get your started. Find a good place to run which is free from obstructions, or consider joining a gym. Alternatively purchase a home treadmill. There are a variety of machines available to purchase for home use and many of them are designed specifically for home use in mind. An evolve folding treadmill or compact treadmill, for example, can be easily tidied away. If running turns out not to be your thing, then don't give up on exercise altogether. Consider an alternative form of exercising such as walking, dancing, aerobics, or using another kind of home exercise machine, such as rowing machines or an elliptical stepper.

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