“Run for your life” is what you would advise someone in a dangerous situation. It’s the threat that makes you believe “If you run, you may be safe”. But even when the threat isn’t visible, running can still save your life.
It’s generally known that running has many benefits and provides great cardiovascular workout. But is it true that running prevents disease? Can running create immunity against the silent threats that may affect our body at any time?
The truth is it can. Not only running helps you lose weight and stay fit, but it also prevents the emergence of several chronic conditions.
First of all, running prevents obesity by improving the body’s ability to burn calories. Therefore body fat decreases and muscle mass increases. And by controlling obesity you control all subsidiary conditions that may be potentiated by obesity.
Secondly, a consistent runner strengthens the heart muscles. Also, running maintains cholesterol at a moderate level and lowers blood pressure. All in all, it maintains your heart healthy and efficient. And the possibility of having a stroke is wildly lowered.
One other aspect that is highly improved by constant running is bone strength. Osteoporosis is a largely encountered disease and its manifestations are terrible.
The good news is that an every-day runner can strengthen bones formation, thus the chances of developing this disease decrease considerably.
Those suffering from back pain can manage their condition by strengthening the back muscles and by increasing flexibility. A runner that respects the right body posture and proper running techniques is powerful enough to fight against back conditions.
Apart from the physical perks, running also has important psychological benefits. While running, certain substances from the brain are being activated. For example, it increases serotonin level which leads to positive feelings and comfort. Connected to serotonin is dopamine that controls sleeping habits. Endorphins are another type of neurochemicals that are elevated during running. All these substances provide a positive attitude, good night sleeps and a certain psychological force. Feeling good always brings about a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
There is no doubt that running can delay the trigger of cancers, infections, neurological conditions and other kinds of life threats.
But don’t forget that running isn’t enough. A proper balance between physical activity and a healthy diet is the onset against diseases.
This article is signed by Anna, a runner and owner of RunReviews. Anna writes mostly about treadmill reviews and workouts that she tests during her exercise routine.
