We all know running is good for us, but do we know why? Here are ten science-based benefits of running that you can whip out at your next pub quiz or trivia night.
- Running can help you cope with the stresses of day-to-day life, as it slows the release of stress hormones like cortisol, helping to avoid spikes in anxiety
- It can improve your memory. Running induces an increase of a certain protein, cathepsin-B, that promotes the production of new brain cells
- Running promotes a healthy immune system as it helps you to maintain a healthy body weight, reduces blood pressure and improves circulation
- It can help to strengthen your lungs. A study found that short durations of intense interval running could improve lung function by strengthening the muscles of respiration
- According to research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, running can reduce your risk of death from cardiovascular disease by 45%
- It strengthens your bones. High impact exercise has been shown to encourage bone growth and promote healthy bone mineral density
- It can help you sleep better, as long as your run isn’t right before bedtime! The John Hopkins Medical Centre conducted research showing that exercise can not only help you fall asleep faster but can improve the quality of your sleep
- Running is a great way to boost your mood, as dopamine and serotonin are produced and released in higher concentrations when exercising
- It’s been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, as your blood sugar levels will lower due to the muscles using glucose for energy during your run
- Running is great for your core. A research study found that the external obliques were the abdominal muscles mainly engaged when running
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