Here are some of the benefits that running has, maybe this will influence you to start on your running journey today.
When you think of running or exercise you automatically think about how it helps your physical health. About how it makes you fitter, creates a healthier lifestyle, and is used as a tool for people who want to lose weight. This is all true however, running and exercise are great ways to help your mind and mental wellbeing. In this article, I will be going through some of the few benefits that come with running and the ones that have stood out to me the most. I enjoy running myself and have found it very beneficial. I will be having a short chat with Amanda Fitzgerald where Amanda and I will talk about what are the main benefits that we found with running. We will also discuss marathons and how they can be great for your confidence.
- Runner’s High
This is one of the best feelings when you have completed a run. I would describe the feeling as your whole body relaxes. This relaxing feeling is due to all the endorphins that are released throughout your run. The post-run feeling is due to the endocannabinoids, they give the effect of reduced anxiety and the feeling of calm.
2. Relieves Stress
There has been lots of research done on how sticking to a running routine can lead to greater resilience. This means that you may be more capable of dealing with challenges that you might encounter.
3. Self-confidence boost
Running is great for building confidence in yourself. After going for a run, you are proud of yourself as it is an accomplishment that you completed the run. This proves to you that you have done something positive for yourself. It gives you confidence because it shows you what you’re capable of. It shows Running gives you the feeling of empowerment, seeing how strong your body and legs are. This can help with improving your self-image.
4. Setting Goals
Running can give you motivation to set goals for yourself. If you don’t enjoy running as much, setting a certain kilometre target can be great to push you to train. A good goal to set could be a marathon or any run that is a certain number of kilometres that you can train yourself towards.
5. Improved Sleep
If you go for a run, it can improve your sleep patterns. When you have completed a run, it fatigues your muscles which makes you feel more relaxed. This makes it easier to get to sleep at the end of the day and causes you to have a deeper sleep. Sleep is very important for our mental health and can affect how our day will go.
