Tara McPherson Corporate Wellness Team Lead View Bio

Hitting the pavement geared up with your running shoes is great for your health and is a very inexpensive way to exercise. Running also fights the aging process, assists in weight loss, alleviates stress, and reduces blood pressure. Plus, it is one of the most effective forms of cardiovascular exercise for burning the most calories in the least amount of time.

Here are some things to consider when starting your new routine:

  • Determine your baseline fitness level by calculating how long it takes you to run one mile. Then, create a program centered on your baseline and future goals.
  • Purchase running shoes with adequate support to alleviate the potential for injuries.
  • Schedule time in your daily routine to run and keep that schedule finite.
  • Create a log to track your progress. Once you reach pivotal benchmarks, re-evaluate your goals and your game plan.

The physical benefits of running include:

  • Prevents muscle and bone loss
  • Reduces the risk of stroke and breast cancer
  • Fights the early stages of osteoporosis, diabetes and hypertension
  • Reduces the risk of blood clots
  • Boots the immune system
  • Improves lung capacity and physical endurance overtime

The mental health benefits of running include:

  • Reduces stress and depression as your brain releases endorphins while you sweat

Healthy Hints

Don’t forget to warm up and cool down by walking or jogging slowly for 10 minutes before and after your run to prevent injuries.