by Wren Summers

Created on: February 16, 2009

Ever wonder what keeps a runner running? What is ticking within their minds, that keeps their feet galloping and their heart pulsing? Chances are, the health benefits are behind the nit and grit of it. Running, in the essence of the sport, is brimming with health advantages. And, contrary to popular belief, anyone can be a runner. No, not everyone will be an Olympic gold-medalist, but you don't have to be. To benefit from the advantages that running offers, all you need is a bit of will and reasonable health, and you're ready to get going.

Like anything, when starting out, take it slow. Just after slipping on your running shoes, give your legs a good, thorough stretch to loosen up your muscles, and spend a good five or ten minutes walking at a brisk pace to get your heart pumping and your muscles supple. When you're feeling ready, head down the sidewalk for as long as you can - even if it is just a few minutes at first. Listen to your body, don't push yourself too hard, but for the greatest results, make sure you're filling your full potential with every workout. You'll begin to feel your heart beat faster, the capacity of your lungs will expand, and the oxygen will replenish your muscles, and even your mood will begin to lighten.
Running is also an effective way to strengthen your heart and get blood pumping through your veins. It is one of the most potent cardio workouts; when you run, your heart is pumping deeply, pulsing blood and oxygen throughout your body. Overtime, regular running can decrease your risk of a heart attack and maintain your blood pressure at a steady rate (combined with a healthy diet). It can also help clear your veins and arteries, prevent arterial buildup and thus, also reducing risk of clots, stroke or heart attack. Another advantage of an easier blood flow is the prevention of varicose veins.
Several people take up running for a major health concern in particular: weight loss. It is true that running is the most effective cardio workout, burning the most calories per minute than any other exercise. The faster the pace and the greater the effort expended, obviously leads to more calories burned, but even a steady pace will aid weight loss dramatically.
Not only will running aid your heart and keep you fit, but it is proven that it will also keep you young. In today's day and age, many of us lead quite sedentary lives. We drive to work. We sit at work. We come home, and sit at the desk. We sit and do homework, the list is endless. Unfortunately, the lack of use of our muscles and bones leads to the deterioration of them. Over time, our bones become weak and brittle, our muscles become soft. It is proven that adequate running is potent in combating this. The pressures placed upon our muscles and skeleton when we run signals our bodies to adapt, and it responds by adding density and strength them.
Running can also help improve and maintain your general health by boosting the immune system. Running stimulates the creation of a higher concentration of white blood cells, the major players in combating diseases. It can also raise the HDL within your blood-the "good" cholesterol while lowering the levels of the bad. In warm weather, sweating from intense exercise also helps clear your pores, deeply cleansing your skin and even aiding with acne.

The health benefits of running are many. Just 30 minutes a day can add years to your life.

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