What Does Running Do For Your Body? (7 tips)
Running isn't just something that gets you fit. It's a lifestyle. From the runner’s high to heart-pumping sanity-saving workouts, running has been known to do wonders for mental health and physical wellbeing.
But did you ever wonder what your body is doing when you throw on a good pair of kicks and power out those strides?
7 Awesome Things Running Does For Your Body
While there are many reasons why people love to run, we will explore 7 tips on how running can benefit your body in ways such as muscle strengthening, improving circulation, and breathing capacity.
So lace up - whether you’re an avid ultramarathoner or just looking for a new way to get fit – let's dive deeper into the science of running!
1. Improves Cardiovascular Health
Lacing up your running shoes isn't just a great way to clear the mind, it's also one of the most effective ways to keep your heart healthy.
According to the American Heart Association, running just 30 minutes a day can significantly decrease your risk of heart disease and stroke.
But don't take their word for it. Scientific studies have also backed up the benefits of pounding the pavement.
In fact, one study found that regular runners reduced their risk of premature death by an impressive 30%.
Cardio for the WIN!
2. Fires Up Weight Loss
If you're like most, you have a love-hate relationship with running. If that’s you, you'll be happy to know that all those early morning jogs can pay off in more ways than one!
So, you want to shed a few pounds but don't know where to start? Look no further than good ol' fashioned running.
Not only is it a great way to clear your mind and get your blood pumping, but it's also one of the best calorie burners out there. How many calories, you ask? Well, on average, you can expect to burn anywhere from 80-120 calories per mile.
And if you're really feeling the burn, you can crank that number up even higher. So, skip the fad diets and complicated workout routines - all you really need is a pair of well-fitting sneakers and some determination to start leaning up!
Go ahead, give it a try. Your waistline (and your brain) will thank you.
3. Strengthens Bones & Muscles
Do you ever feel like you're missing out on a good workout because the gym isn't your jam? Well, lace up those sneakers and hit the pavement because running is not only a great cardiovascular exercise, but it's also a fantastic way to strengthen your bones and muscles!
According to an article in Runner's World, "Running puts a healthy stress on bone tissue, which signals the body to add more bone cells to the area." And if that's not impressive enough for you, a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that runners had significantly more muscle mass in their legs than non-runners.
Hello, sexy legs!
So next time you lace up your sneakers for a jog, remember you're not just burning calories - you're also building some seriously strong bones and sexy muscles.
4. Boosts Mental Health
Running is not just for physical fitness, it also has a positive effect on your mental health.
According to a study published in the Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, running for just 30 minutes decreases symptoms of depression by 40 percent! That's pretty amazing, considering how easy it is to lace up those sneakers and hit the pavement.
Not only does it provide a mood boost, but running also increases the production of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers.
So, whether you're trying to blow off steam after a stressful day or looking to improve your mental well-being, running could be the answer. (Isn’t running ALWAYS the answer?)
5. Improves Sleep Quality
Did you know that running can not only help you shed those extra pounds but can also lead to a better night's sleep? That's right….according to a study published in the Journal of Sleep
Research, regular aerobic exercise such as running can help increase the amount of deep sleep, which is essential for physical and mental restoration.
Running helps regulate hormones and body temperature, which can relieve stress and bring the disrupted sleep-wake cycle back to normal.
Additionally, pairing strength training with your run training can also help improve sleep quality by creating a molecule that promotes sleep called myokine.
PRO TIP: It is important to establish a consistent running routine, preferably in the morning or early afternoon, because exercising too close to bedtime can actually have a negative impact on sleep quality.
6. Energy Levels Will Soar
Before we go any further, let me shoot it straight – running is hard. But hear me out, guys. It turns out that the more you do it, the more energy you'll have. Crazy, right?
According to Harvard Health Blog, exercising boosts oxygen circulation in the body, supporting the mitochondria's energy production and allowing the body to use its energy more efficiently.
In addition, running can help reduce the negative effects of stress on the body, promoting cardiovascular and digestive health and leading to positive effects on energy levels.
Obviously, it's important to properly fuel and hydrate your body before, during, and after our runs, too…
7. Increases Longevity - Live Longer!
Who said running was just a way to break a sweat and look good in spandex?
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that running is associated with a 30% lower risk of all-cause mortality and a 45% lower risk of cardiovascular mortality compared to non-runners. That’s HUGE!!
Additionally, another study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that regular running can increase lifespan by up to 6 years!
So (maybe!) cancel those Happy Hour plans and prioritize that daily jog - your future self will thank you.
The Wrap - What Running Does For Your Body
Running may seem simple, but it has numerous health benefits that should not be overlooked.
From boosting brain function to improving cardiovascular health, running is a smart choice. With the seven tips found in this article, you'll be running for health benefits ASAP!
So get yourself some new running shoes and hit the pavement with us at Frisco Running Company.
Your body (and mind) will thank you. See you on the road!