Benefits of running on a daily basis (Installment #1)
We all know that running is good for us, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s easy to be motivated to run on a daily basis. Here is a list of benefits from daily running that will hopefully give you one more reason to be motivated to put on those running shoes and go out for a run:
1. Running lowers blood pressure. Arteries expand and contract more rapidly during aerobic exercise, so overtime this strengthens the arteries by maintaining the elasticity of the vessels, therefore lowering blood pressure.
2. Running strengthens the heart. Running is a cardiovascular exercise that brings blood to the heart at a much rapider pace than walking or sitting does. The heart is forced to pump blood through the blood vessels more quickly, which done on a regular basis strengthens the vessels and heart muscle. This can help decrease one’s risk for heart attack.
3. Running helps prevent osteoporosis. Research has shown that weight-bearing exercise, done on a regular basis, can help prevent bones from becoming weak and fragile.
4. Consistent running will increase a person’s maximum oxygen volume intake (VO2 max). As a person exercises more frequently, their lungs become capable of expanding more and oxygen intake is increased. VO2 max is a crucial indicator of health and running is a good way to increase VO2max.
5. Running, as well as other aerobic exercises, increases immune system defenses and lowers one’s risk for illness. Prolonged stress weakens the immune system, however, regular exercise can decrease stress, therefore helping maintain a strong immune system. Additionally, long-term, moderate exercise (such as running) has been shown to increase natural killer cell activity in the body. Natural killer cells are the body’s first method of defense against viral infections.
So next time you need a motivation boost to go running, remember all the health benefits associated with regular running. Go lace up those running shoes! =)
Next time we’ll look at how running can improve mental health, decrease stress, and improve sleep quality.
References:
Goodwin, Sarah. (2004). Longer-term moderate exercise improves immune activity. http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2004-04/foas-lme040404.php
The Benefits of Running: http://www.vanderbilt.edu/ans/psychology/health_psychology/running.html
