Reasons to Try Running
A little like Marmite, running seems to divide the crowd. But despite the critics, there are a huge range of benefits you can gain from taking up running. We are great believers in mixing up your routine so if you haven’t yet caught the bug, here are some of the reasons we think you should give it a try.
Stress Relief
After a hectic day, there is nothing quite like pounding the streets and blasting your favourite tunes to release all those tensions. It’s a great opportunity to take some time just for you, to work through your worries, or even better, forget about them. We promise you’ll feel so much better when you come back.
It’s Cheap
There’s really no excuse for not looking after your health and getting fit, and you really don’t need to spend a small fortune on a luxury gym membership. All you need is your body, and it doesn’t cost a penny to get into the fresh air and use it. Mix it up with some sprints, long runs, intervals or hills and you’ll never get bored.
You Can Skip The Commute
There’s nothing more annoying than having to schedule time in your busy day to get to the gym, and sometimes it feels like the journey there takes almost as long as the workout. The joy of running is that travelling is your exercise, and it starts as soon as you set foot out the door – it really is one of the most time efficient ways to workout.
The Runner’s High
Ever wondered why there are so many people completely addicted to running? They might not always want to go, but there is nothing quite like the rush of endorphins you get after a tough session. Push yourself to your max and persevere through the struggles to truly appreciate the runner’s high. Your mood will be through the roof for the rest of the day.
Get Healthier and Feel Good About Yourself
That runner’s high might fade but doing some good for your body is going to give you a sense of confidence that will last long after you’ve finished your run. You’ll soon see your health improving, and you’ll be left feeling proud of your new found fitness.
Eat More Carbs!
Of course you don’t need to exercise to eat carbs, but it is true that you’ll need to eat more to get you through those tough runs. Not only will you want the extra energy to perform at your best, but carbohydrates will be just what your muscles need to recover and repair. There’s nothing like the promise of a big bowl of oats to get you sprinting around the park!
It’s Perfect For Any Level of Fitness
Have you ever been put off attending a certain fitness class because it might be too challenging and you won’t be fit enough? Running is perfect for any level of fitness, from running your first mile to completing your 10th marathon. Push yourself a little bit harder each week and you’ll improve.
Meet New People and Socialise
It’s always nice to meet new people with similar interests and to socialise in a different group to your norm from time to time. Running groups are becoming increasingly popular for all levels of fitness and are often free to join. Catching up with your friends and having a laugh whilst you run is so much more fun than a lonely workout. The social atmosphere will make you really motivated to get to your session.
This blog was written by Kathryn Armitage: the creator of lifestyle blog, kathrynarmitage.co.uk. Covering everything from culture and society to health and travel, check out her blog for a lot of seriously good food, opinionated rants and plans for world adventures. You can also find Kathryn on Instagram and Twitter.