Ask any dedicated runner how they feel about their sport, and they are likely to tell you that they are practically addicted. Running is easy to work up to and is a free activity, so many patients who are trying to lose weight or get healthy turn to running as a first option. However, it’s not always the best choice for everyone.
Benefits
In general, exercise helps to maintain weight and can also reduce the risks of stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, among other conditions. Regular exercise also helps to extend life expectancy and builds bone mass. Running at a consistent pace can also help you to continue burning calories even after your run is over, making it a top choice for many patients who are looking to lose weight.
In addition to the physical and calorie burning benefits, running has positive effects on your brain and mood. Exercise is known to improve your mood with effects similar to antidepressants and many studies have shown that it helps you to cope with anxiety and stress. A December 2012 study even suggested that regular exercise helps to reduce mental decline associated with aging.
Negatives
Even with all of its benefits, running is not for everyone—especially patients with certain conditions. Depending on your current overall health, it might not be wise to begin a running regimen. You should talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program to be sure that it is the safest choice for you.
Since running can be hard on your body with its high impact movements, many patients opt for receiving the benefits of exercise through low impact exercises such as walking, swimming, and cycling.
Considerations
Even if your doctor gives you the green light for beginning a running program, you will need to keep in mind that your running is only as effective as your safety precautions. Don’t sabotage the health benefits of running by wearing the wrong shoes or running on uneven surfaces where you are more at risk of injury.
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