by Steven Caller

Created on: October 19, 2009

Why People should Run

We have all stepped off the pavement to let a Sunday jogger past and we seem to see them pounding the pavements every time the church bells ring for Sunday prayer. But why is it such a popular past time and why do so many people do it?

Running has a number of benefits which aren't perhaps particularly visible when you look at someone who has just finished running, their hands on their knees and panting uncontrollably. For many people running has become more of a regular fixture in their routine and some even treat it as they would going to church on Sunday every week and without fail.

One of the major benefits is of course keeping fit; as one of the best forms of cardiovascular exercise and the exercise that burns more calories per hour than any other, it's bound to be a popular choice. Running can improve endurance, cardiovascular health, flexibility and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Running can burn up to 1200 calories per mile and 60% of this comes from fat. This makes running a great exercise for those who wish to lose a few pounds and tone up that mid section. Interval training consists of sprinting and jogging for a set period of time, usually one to three minutes, and can burn even more calories per hour. Running also increases your metabolism after you have finished exercising.

Running has an amazing capacity of slowing the ageing process; runners don't lose muscle or bone as quickly as those who don't run on a regular basis. The human growth hormone also helps maintain a youthful appearance and is stimulated by running, as are endorphins, the body's natural painkiller.

Many health problems such as high blood pressure and heart attacks can be reduced by running which can also claim to increase lung health and improve the condition of those who suffer from cancer. It is not, however, a cure for cancer.

The benefits aren't purely physical: Running can improve mindset and motivation as well as confidence and general mental well being. It has even been linked to curing depression and relieves stress and tension, often associated with this type of mental illness.

Mental acuity and sharpness are also improved with running, even thought you may not have to think a lot whilst running. This can also help reduce the onset of dementia.

All things considered, there is a wealth of advantages to running which makes it a sport worth trying. The health advantages are immense and it can be made fun if practised as a social activity with others. This explains why so many people seem to be addicted.

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