This is a guest post by Monica Rausch
As long as you have no injuries or medical reason you should not run, running is one of the best exercises you can fill your time with Running has great cardiovascular benefits and is also enjoyable because it’s wallet-friendly and fun! However, it does require commitment and perseverance. Here’s what you need to know about why running is almost definitely for you!
Cost
Running costs basically nothing. Besides a pair of good running shoes, that’s pretty much all that is necessary. Running has many other benefits as well.
The Fun Factor
Running can be fun in a group setting or alone. With a group of people that enjoy running, or friends from work, you have a great opportunity to catch up on conversations and have a laugh. If you run alone, you can take a new route every day or listen to your favorite music. Take time out on the lunch hour and see new sites on a different path. Try driving to a new location to run and have new scenery. Make sure you always run in daylight hours if you are in a new place or have someone running with you at night, for safety.
Fitness
Running is a great cardiovascular exercise. It strengthens the heart and lungs by raising the heart rate and forcing the lungs to work harder than they normally do. For new runners starting out, starting slow is essential, as is working up to a faster pace, after you meet smaller goals. Build yourself up over time to a routine that works best for you.
Weight Loss
A balanced diet and a good running routine will help you lose weight. It’s fairly simple. If your calories taken in are less than the calories burned, weight loss will be achieved. Any type of exercise is better than no exercise at all, but running burns a lot of calories compared to other exercises, such as biking or using an elliptical.
Running with Purpose
Sometimes, the commitment to run consistently is the biggest problem we face. The fun can be gone after a week. However, by joining a running group or running for charity events, you may find that you’re newly inspired, and perhaps doing something for mankind too!
Releasing Stress
So many of us are faced with the day to day stresses of home, work, and relationships. Running is the perfect antidote to release some of those stresses. Trust me, this might just be the best benefit out there. It may take awhile, but once you’re in the zone, you’ll push yourself to new limits with that stress!
If you have never run before, but are thinking about getting started, go slow and take things easy, until you feel comfortable with it. It may be wise to discuss this plan with a doctor, as well. After all, this is a sport that takes a lot of discipline and commitment. Getting started is the hardest part, but after that first run, it will be much easier and a lot more fun!
Monica Rausch writes about fitness, finance & more at www.termlifeinsurance.org.
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