Why Running Is Good For You in 2023

Are you looking for a way to get in shape?

Running is one of the best exercises you can do for your body. It’s easy, it’s affordable, and it yields amazing results.

You might be surprised by all the benefits running has to offer. Not only does it help you lose weight and get toned, but it also has major health benefits like reducing your risk of heart disease and improving your mental health.

You don’t need any special equipment or clothing to start running – all you need is a good pair of shoes and some determination. And if you don’t feel like running outside, there are plenty of great indoor running workouts available online.

Benefits Of Running Every day

1. Running Improves Your Cardiovascular Fitness

One of the most important benefits of running is that it helps improve your cardiovascular fitness.

This means that your heart and lungs will become more efficient at delivering oxygen to your muscles, which will help you stay energized during your workouts. 

Improving your cardiovascular fitness can also help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Related: What are the Optimal Treadmill Speeds for Beginners?

2. Running Helps You Lose Weight

If you’re looking to lose weight, running is one of the best exercises you can do. It’s a great way to burn calories and get your body moving. And the more you run, the more calories you’ll burn.

In fact, running burns more calories than any other type of exercise, making it one of the most efficient ways to lose weight.

Plus, running is a great way to build muscle and tone your body. As you lose weight, you’ll also see a noticeable difference in your appearance.

Related: How to Get and Stay Motivated to Run

3. Running Reduces Your Risk Of Heart Disease

Another great benefit of running is that it can reduce your risk of heart disease. This is because running strengthens your heart and lungs, which makes them work more efficiently.

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death globally, so reducing your risk is a major health benefit.

4. Running Improves Your Mental Health

In addition to the physical benefits of running, there are also mental health benefits.

Running can help improve your mood and reduce stress levels. It can also help you feel more connected to your body and mind.

There is no better feeling than the runner’s high you get after a good run - running releases endorphins, which are known to improve mood and reduce stress which is really all you could ever ask for...

5. Running Can Help You Live Longer

Yep, you read that correctly – running can help you live longer. Studies have shown that people who run regularly have a lower risk of death from all causes than those who don’t run.

Why Running Could Be Bad For You

Now, it would be remiss of us to not include a rundown of the negative aspects of running - that way, you can make an informed decision:

• It can lead to injuries; most workouts open you up to possible injuries and running is no different. The high-impact nature of running can lead to injuries like stress fractures, shin splints, and Achilles tendonitis. This is why it’s important to warm up before running and to listen to your body if you start to feel pain.
• It’s hard on your joints; as we get older, our joints start to wear down and running can exacerbate this. If you have joint pain, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting a running routine.
• You can over-train and burn out; if you’re not careful, you can over-train and burn out. This is why it’s important to take rest days and to listen to your body. If you’re feeling tired or sore, take a day off from running.
• It exposes you to some odd side effects; running can cause some rather unusual side effects like black toenails, chafing, and runner’s trots (yeah... it's a whole thing).

FAQs

What body parts benefit from running?

Almost every muscle in your body benefits from running, but some of the most important muscles include your heart, legs, and core.

Is running better than the gym?

It depends on your goals. If you’re looking to lose weight, running is a great option. But if you’re looking to build muscle, lifting weights at the gym is a better choice.

How many times a week should I run?

Most experts recommend running 3-5 times per week. But it’s important to listen to your body and not overdo it. If you’re just starting out, start with 2-3 runs per week and increase as you feel comfortable.

Do I need special shoes to run?

No, no necessarily. But if you plan on running regularly, it’s a good idea to invest in a good pair of running shoes. This will help reduce your risk of injuries and make your runs more comfortable.

How long should I run a day?

Again, it depends on your goals and your fitness level. If you’re just starting out, aim for 20-30 minutes per day. As you get more experienced, you can increase your run time to 60 minutes or more.

Do I need to eat before running?

It’s not necessary, but it can help. Eating a light snack before your run will give you some extra energy. But make sure to give yourself enough time to digest your food before you start running.

How fast should I run?

There is no “right” answer to this question. Just run at a pace that feels comfortable for you. As you get more experienced, you can increase your speed. But don’t worry about setting any records, just enjoy the run.

Wrapping Up:

Running is one of the simplest, most efficient exercises you can do for your body and mind. It's a huge factor in why it’s often recommended as a treatment for everything from anxiety to depression.

So, the next time you’re feeling guilty about taking a break from work to go for a run, don’t be.

You’re not only helping your body stay healthy and strong but your brain as well. And that’s good news for your career.

Who knows? Maybe that quick jog will give you the burst of energy you need to come up with your next big idea.