11 reasons to start running

Reason 1: To live longer

There is evidence that taking up running extends your life, even if it’s just a few minutes every day.

 

Reason 2: To burn calories

Your individual calorie consumption is determined by your age, weight, level of activity and the distance and speed that you run. But you can be sure that when you jog you burn 50% more calories than when you run normally.

 

Reason 3: Endorphins

When you run, a range of chemicals are produced in your brain that make you feel happy and well. The effect is similar to that of euphoric drugs. It’s called running euphoria. 

 

Reason 4: To improve your memory

Learning another language isn’t the only way to increase brain activity. Studies show that physical activity plays an even bigger role in preventing cognitive impairment. 

 

Reason 5: To sleep better

People who do regular sport have fewer sleep problems.  Just a bit of exercise is enough to give you a better night’s sleep: 10 minutes of physical activity every day is enough to improve your sleep.

 

Reason 6: To feel more energetic

It might at first seem that going for a run after a day at work will use up your remaining energy. In fact, physical activity fills you with energy. 

 

Reason 7: For a healthy heart

The American Heart Association recommends running for 40 minutes 3 to 4 times a week to naturally decrease your blood pressure and cholesterol.  

 

Reason 8: To reduce stress

Technically, sport is a type of stress for the body. The chemicals produced when you run are the same as the ones that make you feel good and also decrease stress.

 

Reason 9: To reduce your risk of cancer

According to information from the US  National Cancer Institute, there is evidence that people who are physically active have a lower risk of bowel and breast cancers.  On the basis of these new studies it has been suggested that physical exercise contributes to protecting the lining of the  womb, lungs and the prostate.

 

Reason 10: To spend more time outside

Fresh air strengthens the nervous system and is a great source of energy.  

 

Reason 11: To avoid colds

If running becomes a regular part of your exercise regime, you will be less susceptible to flu and colds.  Moderate exercise strengthens the ability of your immune system to fight viruses.