Running: the ultimate stress relief
Running isn’t just for professional athletes anymore. In the 1970’s, scientists proved that running as exercise can help produce a chemical in the brain called endorphins. Endorphins act similarly to morphine in that it creates a happy and pain free euphoria. This condition of running becoming euphoric has been dubbed a “runner’s high,” but can also occur with any type of cardiovascular activity. In this way, running can help you feel as good inside as it helps you look on the outside.
Running is a great tool for good mental health and well-being. It can relief stress, prevent mental anxiety or even help prevent burnout from work, school or other activities that might be weighing on your mind. Whether you run alone or with friends or music, it is a perfect time to reflect on your day or workout problems. For most people, there is a lack of attention paid to one’s mental condition and health. Running and exercise provides a much-needed outlet to contemplate the day and focus solely on oneself.
Physical well-being
A minimum of three 30-minute runs per week has been proven to help maintain a healthy weight. Running can help you tone muscles, lose or maintain weight and keep you very physically fit. One bonus is that running is very easy and inexpensive to do. Everyone knows how to run, all you need is a good pair of running shoes and the world is your gym.
The ultimate boost of self-esteem
For runners and race walkers alike, one of the greatest challenges for the average person is to complete a marathon. A marathon, or 26.2 miles, presents not only a physical challenge, but an extreme mental challenge as well. Because most experts agree that the average person should never run more than 20 miles in preparation of a marathon, it creates a mental barrier that create immense amounts of self-esteem to overcome.