Advantages of Being a Runner
Running is an effective form of cardiovascular exercise that can be extremely beneficial for the human body both physically and mentally. To reap the benefits of running, an individual should run for 30 minutes or more, at least three times per week. People who are new to running can begin by walking regularly and gradually increasing their speed. According to MedicineNet.com, running or jogging is the sixth most popular form of exercise in the United States.
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Health and Fitness
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Going for regular runs can have a positive effect on your health and can also help to increase your level of fitness. This is because the act of running causes the heart rate to increase, which leads to improved circulation and enables the body's muscles to process oxygen more efficiently. Running regularly can also reduce the risk of suffering from conditions such as angina, heart failure, high blood pressure or a stroke. Running can also strengthen bones because it is a weight-bearing exercise. This means that running regularly can help to delay the loss of bone density that occurs naturally as people age.
Weight
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Running can help you to control your weight when it is used in conjunction with a healthy diet. According to Bupa.co.uk, a person who weights 60 kg. (132 lbs.) can expect to burn around 300 calories for every half-hour of running when they run a mile in 10 minutes. Running regularly can also help your body to burn fat from all over your body by turning it into energy.
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Mental Health
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Exercise such as running can be good for your mental health, as it encourages the release of feel-good hormones in the body, such as serotonin. This can aid in the recovery of depression and can improve self-confidence. The act of running can also be used as a method of de-stressing, as the rhythmic pace and breathing can encourage feelings of relaxation.
Cost Effective
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As a hobby, running is extremely cost effective, as it is free and does not require expensive equipment to practice. All you need to become a runner is a pair of trainers. Running can be cost effective in other ways, as it means you can replace short journeys in the car or on public transportation with a run, which means you spend less money on fuel and transit tickets.
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References
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