It is never too late to catch up on your “2015 New Year’s Resolution”!
And if losing weight or keeping a healthy physique is a part of your list, try crossing it out by running regularly. Running is a convenient and affordable option. You can do it almost anywhere without the need of costly equipments – aside from a pair of running shoes.
There are fewer barriers in maintaining a running regimen too! I know this personally because my sister and I make it a point to run outdoors as much as possible. Aside from this, running boasts with many benefits from strengthening your finances to overall health!
Read for yourself:
1. WEIGHT LOSS
High-intensity exercises stimulate more “afterburn” of calories than low-intensity exercises. In fact, a long-term comparison study of runners and walkers showed that calories burned through running resulted to 90% more weight loss than walking. Thus, running regularly helps you to shed and maintain your desired weight.
If you are still skeptical, here are 15 inspiring weight loss stories aided by running.
2. ENHANCE YOUR HEALTH
Running regularly has been shown to improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen the muscles, and increase the levels of good cholesterol. It also aids in building stronger bones, as it is a weight-bearing exercise.
With health benefits like these, how can you not love running?
3. REDUCES STRESS AND DEPRESSION
Aside from its physical benefits, running radiates emotional benefits too!
Running outdoors and feeling the glimmer of the sun can make you feel better. Getting at least 30 minutes of exercise a day (5 times/week) can alleviate the symptoms of depression and sunlight reduces stress and improves one’s mood, according to the researchers from University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University.
What’s more? Since running helps emit endorphins or “happy hormones” without the need of prescription drugs, you can reduce the symptoms of depression naturally.
4. HELP YOU EARN MORE
If you are still contemplating on whether or not you must run or not then, you must know that regular exercise helps to increase your salary.
In 2012, a study published under the Journal of Labor Research found that employees who exercise regularly earn 9% more than their lazier or sedentary counterparts. This may be due to the enhanced mental function, energy levels, and mood. These improvements make them more valuable to their employers.
Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)
What are you waiting for? Grab a good pair of shoes and start running at your nearest town park!