Six Reasons To Start Running

If you are looking for an activity that will benefit both your body and your mind, you should seriously consider taking up running. This activity can work wonders for both your physical and mental wellbeing. Below have been listed six of the most important reasons why you should start running.

1. A Change of Scenery
If you live in a crowded part of town and don’t go out that often, running can be the perfect way to widen your horizons. If it is possible, you could even consider trail running. Running along trails is the perfect way to enjoy nature while getting some exercise. You’ll probably be able to enjoy seeing butterflies and birds along your route and, depending on where you live, you might also be able to catch a glimpse of deer or similar creatures.

2. You Won’t Get Bored
Unlike other exercises, it is very hard to get bored while running. With the changing elevation, obstacles such as puddles, rocks and the bones of dead chipmunks in the path, the environment will constantly be changing. Many people find this to be a welcome diversion from the rat-like repetition of running on a treadmill. Even if you run only one trail all year long, the scenery will change frequently depending on the season and weather.

3. It Can Be Peaceful
If you have the ability to run in a national forest, a park or somewhere away from the city, you will be away from the annoying influences of people and cars. Your mind will be able to calm down and you’ll be able to relax and take in the benefits of nature. The fresh air, the sky overhead and the wildlife in the area will all work together to create a relaxing experience even better than you would achieve at a spa.

4. Achieve Your Goals

If you’re like most people, you want to be constantly pushing your limits and reach greatness. If you have a certain route that you love to run but always find yourself walking at a certain part, you can easily set a goal of being able to run right through this area. You can focus on building up endurance until you are able to run right through this area with minimal effort. It’s a quick and easy way to feel awesome.

5. Running Outdoors Is Less Painful

If you decide to run off road rather than on a treadmill or along the sidewalk, you are doing something good for your body that it will thank you for in the years to come. Because the dirt has a little bit of give every time your foot hits it, you will reduce the amount of force subjected to your knees with every step you take. In addition, the constantly changing terrain and the addition of small obstacles such as rocks in the path will ensure that you are able to strengthen the muscles in your feet, legs and ankles.

6. Breathe Fresher Air

If you feel cooped up or claustrophobic after a long day at work, going for a nice, pleasant run along a creek or a dirt trail lined with pine needles can be the perfect way to unwind. It’s all well-known scientific fact that trees absorb carbon dioxide and put out oxygen, so running through a forest is a perfect way to get a blast of fresh air. There’s no way that running on a treadmill can give you that same experience.

In addition to the facts listed above, another reason to get into running is because of the common phenomenon known as runner’s high. This phrase is used to describe the intense feeling of psychological well-being that is frequently associated with intense, rhythmic type, long duration exercises.

Simply put, when the body is subjected to intense strain during physical workouts, the brain releases endorphins to help you accomplish your mission. Endorphins are the same chemicals that are released when a person ingests drugs such as cocaine or marijuana. For this reason, doctors have noted that often runners are less subject to depression and anxiety than the average person.

If you are interested in making yourself as healthy as you can be, and having a good time while you do so, consider taking up running.