The best running benefits to get you out of the door!
Mood Boosting
There are many benefits to running! First, after completing a run many runners experience what is called the “runner’s high”. This is a period where endorphins have been released in the brain. Furthermore, it leaves runners feeling more relaxed, calm, and happy. Many runners, including myself, run to escape the mental burdens of daily life. While it might seem counterintuitive, running can boost your energy levels throughout the day. When we put our bodies to work, we increase our blood flow, which sends more oxygen throughout the body. The increase in oxygen allows us to feel more awake and preform at our absolute best.
Strengthens Your Body
Running can strengthen your whole body, rather than just one area. For instance, when running you utilize your arms, legs, and core. In turn, all your muscles become more toned and adaptable to pressure. Internally, running keeps your heart healthy by pumping it more often. Additionally, the sport increases your flexibility and improves mobility when done often. Personally, I struggle keeping my posture straight. However, ever since I started running longer distances my form has kept my back straight and strong!
Improves Sleep Quality
Do you struggle with sleepless nights? Try running! Running burns enough stored energy that makes your body crave sleep to rejuvenate. As mentioned previously, a benefit of running is reduced stress which leads to mental clarity. The more serene you are throughout the day translates to less intrusive thoughts at bedtime. Resulting in the ability to fall asleep immediately rather than tossing and turning all night. Also, regular exercise can reset our internal clock when it is out of wack. Heavy activity can prompt our body to fall asleep, in turn, regulating our sleep cycle. So, the next time you feel groggy from being up late, go for a run!
Read more about how exercise is connected to our internal clock here!
Encourages Social Connection and Exploration
Another benefit of running is that it is accessible to everyone! You can run with a friend, participate in a run club, engage with runners on social media, or meet new people at races. Often long-distance running creates shared experiences and builds bonds among individuals who persevere together. Running provides opportunities to catch-up with people and encourages meaningful conversations over the long miles.
Running gives you a perfect excuse to experience new things. I have made an intentional effort to visit new places by finding nearby races. Furthermore, I have been able to keep a routine list of places to run when I need a change of scenery. Whether you run through parks, along a trail, or in a new gym, running allows you to uncover hidden gems that might have gone otherwise unnoticed. The sport can challenge you to explore yourself as well. Providing a chance to reflect on when you feel productive, what your goals are, and if you have been taking proper care of yourself.
Teaches Discipline
The benefits of running only come from consistent effort and discipline each day. This means setting goals, tracking progress, showing up when you do not want to, and sticking to a plan. To grow, we must face discomfort and running shows us how to be persistent through roadblocks. Weather? No problem. No time? Find some. Similarly, you are taught patience as results do not come overnight. I have learned how to listen to my body and form good habits from years of practice. For example, I have grasped how to fuel correctly, not overtrain, and recover fully. Overtime these small actions will help you avoid distractions and build a strong mindset. This new mindset will translate into other areas of your life making it easier to get things done and tackle new challenges!
Feeling inspired?
Grab your shoes, find a route, and enjoy the many benefits of running. Your mind and body will thank you later!
What is your favorite thing about running? Let me know in the comments!
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