4 of 23

Write now Article Tools

Running is my personal psychiatrist, trainer and confidante. When I go running it's not with some tenacious spirit of becoming a marathon star or Olympic gold medalist. No, the thing that makes me tie up my laces and break into a sweat is the escape. The long stretching road and the world at my back; things seems to come into great perspective when I'm in this state. I feel free of my life and therefore better able to see where exactly my life is going. All that anxiety and frustration that normally comes with life's next turn seems to dissipate under my feet and leave me only with clear thoughts.

The rhythmic beat of my feet upon the tar (or grass) and the fluidity of my movement shapes my thinking. My tumultuous aggravations become slow and I am able to grasp my fears with simplicity. Running can't fix your problems, but it can give you the exhilaration to do something about them. I can guarantee that a quick run will cheer you up and sooth any nerves you may have built up.

Health wise, running is secure at the top of all fitness programs. It works out most muscle groups in your body as well strengthening your joints and breathing. Your lungs are pumping increased oxygen, your heart is beating overtime and this results in greater efficiency in your organs. Interestingly, the benefits are not restricted to the period of the run; your body continues to burn calories well into the next 24 hours. Running has long terms health benefits for your circulation, heart and muscle tone as well as enormous physiological gains. It doesn't even have to be a long run, it could be a fast walk around your block that stimulates all these benefits, the main thing is increased activity.

Learn more about this author, Uhuru Uhlanya.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Why running becomes addictive?
We want to hear your view. Write now!