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When you envision running, you probably will fall into one of two categories. Either you love it or you hate it; sometimes it is even a love/hate relationship. But what makes people love it? And what makes people who hate it keep doing it? It is likely that the benefits of running outweigh the hatred (if there is any hatred).
There are as many benefits of running as there are reasons that runners run. It may be to lose weight or get fit. Perhaps they run to stay healthy and happy. It could even be a way to meet people or to compete with themselves or others in races. Whatever the case may be for each runner, the benefits of running can be broken down into 3 main categories:
Health Benefits of Running
There are a number of health benefits that running or jogging provide. A primary reason many runners begin running is to lose weight; losing excess weight is one of the healthiest things one can do. Running also prevents muscle and bone loss that occurs naturally with old age. Running may also help fight disease; it certainly helps to strengthen your heart and whole cardiovascular system. These are just a few of the health benefits one earns from running.
Mental Benefits of Running
There are large (and proven) psychological benefits to running as well. Running builds confidence in all ages of people. Going for a jog during your day can reduce your stress level drastically. And, of course, endorphins are the body's natural antidepressant.
Community Benefits of Running
Don't overlook the benefits of a community to turn to; the running community is very much a culture all its own. It is an important support system for many runners, providing support in their running and life. Of course, there are health and mental benefits to making friends as well.
Updated: February 1, 2007
A Guide To Starting To Run
Usually, the hardest (or scariest) step in getting fit is getting started. I’m here to make that step easier for you. Here's everything you need to know to get out there and start running; all you have to do is do it.
Run Today
The most important step you can take is to start running right now. Avoid saying you’ll start tomorrow, next week, or next month. Do it today and tomorrow will be easier.
Know the Basics
Take the time to learn more about this new activity. Becoming familiar with injury prevention techniques and other useful information about running can make it easier--and that means you’ll be more likely to succeed at it.
To familiarize yourself with what you need to know, read up on common injuries, useful training programs, definitions of unfamiliar words, and answers to frequently asked questions.
You may find running books helpful, too.
However, don't postpone your first, second, or third run because you feel you haven’t yet read enough. Keep brushing up on the basics as you get into your new running regimen.
Set Goals
It is extremely important that you set realistic goals. If you’ve never run before and you set the goal of running a marathon, that’s fine. But also give yourself smaller, more attainable goals that can be reached sooner. In this case, you could start with running a 5k then, after reaching that goal, move on to a 10k, and so on.
Whatever you do, don’t let yourself quit because you're having a hard time with things. Learn to turn "failures" into successes.
Ask Questions
Every runner I know is happy to share his or her running knowledge and experiences. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek advice. Turn to me (via email: running.guide@about.com), other runners, and employees at running specialty stores. Still, remember that what works for some may not work for others. So take advice, test it, and adjust it to your needs and abilities.
Keep it up
Realize the importance of resetting your goals as you go. Your goals aren’t set in stone; if you need to reevaluate them, do it. Sticking to goals that are no longer working for you could discourage you or leave you feeling bored. Feel comfortable changing things up to keep running interesting. Try a new trail, race, or running partner. Or try hashing, orienteering, trail running, or even water jogging.
How can you do all of these things at once? Sign up for the "30 Minutes in 3 Weeks" beginner’s running e-course. It will start you off on the right track by sending you daily e-mails, telling you what to run that day, and providing you with links to articles tied to the stage of running that you are in. It’s like having your own personal coach as you begin your new running routine.
Updated: July 2, 2007
