by Katarzyna Radzka

Created on: May 25, 2009

As you move one foot in front of the other, pounding the pavement, feeling the sweat drip down your spine, heart racing, pulse quickening with each step you take, your mind clears and you feel free. Away from every day stresses, household chores and the many voices asking too many questions. This is your time. An hour in the day, dedicated solely to you. Is running healthy? Yes, it is.

Running clears your mind

There's nothing better than going for a thirty minute run outside in the park, forest or your local area to gain some perspective. It's just you and the pavement or wild terrain, no voices clouding your judgement, no children wanting help with their homework, no partner asking when dinner's going to be on the table. Running is all about you and taking some time out from the stresses of ordinary life.

Running maintains and improves your cardiovascular health

After spending a hard day at the office, slaved away in front of a computer, going for a run is a great way to keep your heart healthy. Cardiovascular diseases is one of the biggest killers for men and women. Running for thirty minutes, four or five times per day, decreases your risks of cardiovascular disease and keeps your heart running like it's supposed to.

Running relaxes the mind and body

OK, so it mightn't feel like it when your huffing and puffing and there's still a few kilometres to go but once your done ask yourself how do you feel. Yes, there's a moment of satisfaction and relief that it's over, but give it a couple minutes and both your mind and body feel relaxed, refreshed and ready to tackle any challenges that may come your way.

Running prevents weight gain

Obesity is another killer. Fitting in a few runs into your busy week, is one of the best ways to prevent unwanted weight gain. Running burns a lot of calories, about 600+ per hour depending on your body weight. If you run regularly you lower your risk of weight gain and other obesity related diseases. You still have to watch what you eat, but that donut with coffee won't do as much damage it would if were spending all your free time in front of the idiot box.

Running can be social

There are many organised running events in most towns and big cities ranging from 5km fun runs to full distance marathons of 42km. It's an opportunity to meet people with like-minded interests and build your business and social circle. Check out the internet or local running publications for any upcoming runs in your town and city.

As you can see, there are many health benefits to running. It offers all over health benefits on the inside and out. If you run regularly, invest in a good pair of running shoes to prevent injuries, warm up and don't push yourself on the first go if you want to stick with it for the long term. Running can be done on your lonesome, but you can also get your family and friends involved. Instead of heading to a bar or caf for some catching up, put on your trainers and go to the park for a run and enjoy a delicious chicken salad afterwards to get your dose of protein and restore your energy levels.

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