What? You don’t run? Take a moment and reflect: have you ever wondered why you reject the idea of lacing up a pair of sneakers and going for a run? Do you get out of breath? Do you feel shin pain? Do you sweat a lot? Whatever the reason, it’s understandable.
Running is an activity that puts our bodies in full operation, and for some, it may not be the most enjoyable experience. However, it’s worth remembering that running is a natural human activity and was once essential for survival.
Unfortunately, many people avoid running, whether due to lack of interest, physical discomfort, or simply succumbing to the conveniences of modern lifestyle.
While it’s tempting to give in to a sedentary lifestyle, it’s important to reconsider your relationship with running and understand that the benefits of this activity go far beyond the physical aspect. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why running is a practice that needs to be incorporated into your routine.
Why don’t you like running?
First and foremost, it’s essential to understand the reasons behind your aversion to running. Excuses vary, from lack of time to the inherent laziness that strikes when the opportunity for exercise arises. It’s crucial to acknowledge this aversion and seek to understand it internally rather than simply accepting it.
Considering human evolution, our ancestors needed good physical conditioning for survival, whether chasing prey during hunting or escaping predators.
I’m not comparing today to ancient times, but the truth is that people stopped running because the need no longer exists.
Today, even though running is unnecessary for survival, the issue at hand is that the conveniences of the contemporary world have distanced us from what is most essential—taking care of and maintaining our physical well-being, often achieved in part through the regular practice of activities like running.
Along with all the conveniences that the modern world brings us, there are also drawbacks, such as sedentary lifestyles.
Alternatives for Running Beginners
If you’re overweight and not accustomed to regular exercise, feeling some discomfort at the beginning—whether in your cardiovascular endurance or the physical impact of running—is natural.
However, it’s important to emphasize that there are beginner-friendly alternatives that can prepare your body for running. An extremely useful option is the elliptical, an exercise machine that simulates the running motion without the direct impact on knees and joints.
This can be a great option for those who are overweight or simply want to start more gradually and in a more controlled way in the world of running.
Profound Benefits of Running
Understanding and overcoming the resistance to taking the first step toward a running habit can be challenging, but carefully considering the profound benefits that running can bring to your health might be just the motivation you need.
In addition to providing an efficient way to burn calories and stay active, running also forces the body to adapt and grow, bringing a host of wonderful benefits to the entire organism:
- Strengthens Bones: Running is an impact activity that helps in bone mass formation, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
- Improves Circulation: Increases blood flow, accelerating muscle recovery, and transporting nutrients and oxygen to the body’s cells.
- Stimulates Creativity: The release of hormones like endorphins contributes to increased concentration and creativity.
- Promotes Better Sleep and More Energy: Regular physical exercise, such as running, has been shown to be effective in regulating sleep.
- Aids Problem-Solving: Increased neural connection during aerobic activities like running assists in information processing and, consequently, problem-solving.
- Reduces Insulin Resistance: Once you start running, the body burns available blood sugar instead of producing more insulin, helping to maintain balanced sugar levels.
- Prevents Heart Problems: Running is a fantastic cardiovascular exercise that strengthens the heart and reduces the likelihood of heart problems.
- Increases Training Efficiency: If well-conditioned for running, your performance in other workouts, such as gym sessions, is likely to improve.
- Improves Resting Heart Functions: Running regularly helps increase blood ejection by the heart, not only during exercise but also when you are at rest.
Various studies demonstrate the positive effects of physical activity, especially running, as an effective alternative in combating signs of depression, especially when practiced outdoors. It stimulates fat burning through increased calorie expenditure. Contrary to common belief, running strengthens the back.
This happens because, when running, various muscle groups, especially those in the legs and core, undergo a process of contraction and relaxation. The overall increase in blood circulation in these specific areas strengthens the muscles, contributing to a more robust spine.
Therefore, even though it may seem challenging, overcoming laziness and lacing up your running shoes brings lasting and profound benefits.
Run for a Healthier and Balanced Life
In conclusion, running is not just any physical activity; it’s a naturally skillful action for humans that requires regular stimulation. Whether to improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, increase lung capacity, or combat stress, the health benefits of running are undeniable and significant.
Throughout this article, we’ve covered numerous benefits and reasons why you should consider running as an ally in the pursuit of a healthier and more balanced life. So, don’t hesitate; run toward a healthier and more balanced future.
Do you go to the gym, eat well and still not get the expected results? Something you are doing is wrong. Let me analyze what can be improved in your routine and you will have incredible results with a plan made especially for you in terms of exercise and nutrition.
Delano Pinheiro 