The benefits of running: why you should start running

Running is much more than just physical exercise. It's an activity that can transform your life in so many ways. Here's why you should put on your running shoes and start running today.

Improved physical health

Strengthening the heart

According to one study, running has significant effects on heart health:

- Reduced mortality from cardiovascular disease

- A stronger heart muscle and more efficient blood pumping

- Lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of hypertension

- Better artery and heart health thanks to an improved lipid profile that increases "good" cholesterol and reduces "bad" cholesterol.

Boosted immune system

The immune system is strengthened when we run, especially when we run slowly. What's more, running outdoors exposes the body to various elements, strengthening the immune system, which may explain why runners have better immune systems.

Bone and joint health

An article in TIME highlights the positive effects of running on knees and hips when done recreationally. Recreational runners are less prone to osteoarthritis than non-runners and professional runners. What's more, running for 30 minutes reduces inflammation around knee joints. Running, particularly middle-distance running, also improves bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis(National Geographic). It is important, however, to monitor the intensity and duration of training sessions, and to take into account factors such as obesity or previous injuries which could, conversely, lead to joint problems.

Mental and emotional benefits

Social well-being

Running alone, in a group, with a friend, or belonging to a club or virtual community, reduces isolation and increases support and motivation.

Mental well-being

Running releaseshappy hormones such as endorphins and dopamine, which are associated with improved mood and reduced stress and anxiety. Running enables people suffering from depression to recover as quickly as someone on antidepressants. One study claims that running for 15 minutes a day reduces the risk of depression by 26%.

In addition to the above benefits, achieving running goals boosts self-confidence and is good for morale.

Positive impact on professional life

Running stimulates brain function, improving memory and learning ability by increasing blood flow to the brain and activating the molecule BDNF, which encourages the growth of new neurons and protects existing brain cells(National Geographic). Improving these cognitive abilities leads to better concentration and increased productivity at work.

The ultimate guide to a healthy and productive work environment

In addition to its benefits for the physical and mental well-being of individuals, running is also beneficial to the company. It is therefore crucial for your company to encourage your employees to take up a physical activity such as running. SPART can help you set up a corporate sports program and motivate your employees to excel.

Still not convinced? Here are 10 compelling reasons to adopt sport at work.

Running offers a multitude of benefits for body and mind. So what are you waiting for? Put on your sneakers and start running today!🏃‍♀️👟

By Candice Lhomme

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