There are many positives that come with running every day. Running regularly may lead to lower rates of heart disease, diabetes and even cancer.
However, there are also some negative effects that can arise. As with everything, it’s important to know both sides of the story so you can make an informed decision on how much you personally should be running.
First, what are the benefits of running every day?
Runners have all kinds of individual reasons for running. Some people run for the sense of achievement. Some run for the competitive element. Some run to relieve stress. Others run to increase their overall fitness and make themselves fitter, healthier people.
Incorporating running as part of a daily regimen helps you to develop a fixed routine. Regular habits can make keeping up with exercise easier. Routine can make you healthier and feel better about yourself.
Running also has a wide range of benefits to your health. It can improve heart health and help you lose weight. It can also help you gain mental perspective and reduce stress.
Overall, people who run have a lower risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Running may also help lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
Running can improve your mood
Running is a great way to raise your spirits. It can help you feel better and be more positive, even if you’ve never been a runner before. Running is a great way to get outside, breathe fresh air and relieve stress. Research shows that running can even help you reduce symptoms of depression.
Running can help you sleep better
Running can help you sleep better. Running is one of the best ways to relax and destress after a long day. It may also help you get good quality sleep and develop better sleep patterns. Running makes you tired, and the effects of serotonin released during running can also help sleep patterns.
Running can boost your confidence
Running enhances your self-esteem and can make you feel more confident. When you run, you’re more likely to believe in yourself and feel good about what you’re doing. This can lead to more success in other areas of your life as well, including your career or relationships.
“Regular exercise is highly recommended and can improve your health in many aspects, such as cardiovascular conditioning and increased energy level, improved mood and sleep as well as maintaining a healthy weight,” Jeff Roberts, MD, CAQ Sports Medicine, FAAFP, FAMSSM, a physician in our Richmond market, shares. “It can also help with controlling certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol. Running is an excellent form of exercise to achieve your personal health goals and could be the exercise for you. ”
Is it safe to run every day?
Running is a great way to stay active, but it can also put a lot of stress on your body. Running every day can interfere with muscle recovery, putting you at risk of injury. To stay healthy, find the right running distance for you. Work out a running frequency that doesn’t overstress your body, then continually reassess as you get fitter. Be mindful of overuse injuries and listen to your body.
Here are some tips to help you plan a running program for your needs and to avoid overuse injuries:
- Define your training schedule. Include distance, running frequency, times and cross-training.
- Consider alternating days of running with days of low-impact training, such as cycling or swimming, to work other muscle groups.
- Make sure you’re wearing the right running shoes and change them frequently.
- Stretch after your run and warm up before you start.
- Increase the distance you run each week gradually.
- Maintain good form while running.
- Consider yoga to build flexibility.
So, how much running is healthy?
It is very possible to do too much exercise, just as it is to do too little. Every person is different in their body shape, body composition, genetics and current training ability. How much running you should do is very much a personal thing.
If you’re a beginner, going for a daily run increases the risk of a running injury, such as shin splints or a stress fracture. Instead, consider beginning by running for 20 to 30 minutes every other day. Make sure you consult a doctor first if you have preexisting medical conditions.
Common injuries from running too much
While running is a great way to lose weight and stay fit, you need to be sensible. Runners are at risk of overuse injuries. Direct damage can happen to muscles, tendons, ligaments or bones from repeated overuse. The most common cause of injuries is sudden or extreme increases in the intensity and frequency of exercise.
Overall, it’s important to build up exercise duration and intensity gradually as well as be sensible in the way you plan your exercise schedule.
Learn about the orthopedics and sports medicine services we offer at Bon Secours.
