Five Reasons to Run

Running is more popular than ever.  The number of ultramarathons has increased by around one thousandfold in the last twelve years.  (Check out this interview with Sean Blanton, who organizes the Ute 100 race in Utah, for more on why people get into ultra running.)  Marathons, half-marathons, and an ever-expanding array of creative 5k and 10k fun runs are more and more popular and feel more and more accessible.  But running is about a lot more than racing or even participating in your local bubble run, charity 5k, or mud run.  Here are five of the best reasons to take up the sport.  

The Oatmeal

Several years ago, Mathew Inman, who writes and draws the comic The Oatmeal, did a popular post about running long distances.  The humor may not be for everyone, but he does a great job explaining some of the deeper reasons to run, from outpacing sloth and gluttony to finding a meditative and mindful still space within yourself.  

Endorphins

Most runners will tell you that running gives you a natural high, even when it painful or exhausting, and a big part of you wants to stop.  A runner’s high is a beautiful, clean exhilaration that can last for hours after a hard workout.  

Health

As a general rule of thumb, running burns around 100 calories a mile.  It’s one of the most efficient forms of exercise for the mind and body.  It can also boost your immune system, lower your risk of heart disease, strengthen your bones and joints (yes, it can be good for your joints!), and improve your mental health, among other benefits.  Added together, all these benefits might even increase your lifespan.  And because of all these things, running is a great way to feel better in your day-to-day life.  

Get Outside

Running on a treadmill can be great for you, too, but most people prefer to run outside when they can.  Breathing fresh air, hearing sounds like birdsong, and running past trees all have mental health benefits.  Just being outside can improve your focus and reduce stress.  Running is a great way to incorporate time outdoors into your weekly routine.  

As Far as You Want to Go

Running is incredibly flexible.  You can push yourself as far and as hard as you want.  For some, their local 5k charity run will provide a terrific challenge.  For others, a more significant challenge, like the Ute 100 in Utah, will be appropriate.  Training and maintaining can take a few hours a week or be a huge part of your life.  Every runner can find the level they want to run at for themselves. 

There are a lot of reasons running has become so popular. If you are considering taking up the sport for the first time, make sure to follow these tips to run injury-free. Then get out there, get outside, and push yourself to the level with which you are comfortable. You will reap health benefits, and chances are, you will learn a few things about yourself along the way.