Healthy running exercise

Running is one of the simplest, yet most effective exercise methods, if not the simplest and the most effective one. However, one may even wonder why someone should take up running as their way of exercising when there are gyms and much less demanding ways of including some physical activity into a daily routine. The truth is that it really just depends on someone’s preference. While, some people prefer to run on a treadmill in the gym, others prefer nature, fresh air and running paths. Those runners who prefer the second choice should get acquainted with all the upsides and the downsides of the activity of their choice.

What are the benefits that come from running regularly?

As stated, running is a very effective exercise, and by helping people lose weight and stay fit, it also preserves them from many dangerous diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, various heart diseases, particularly a heart attack and stroke are just some of many that can occur due to an unhealthy lifestyle with hardly any physical activity whatsoever. It has been proven that people who run regularly decrease the risk of getting these diseases significantly.

Not to mention that it affects every muscle in the body and burns such a large amount of calories that really any kind of even remotely strict diet regime is far from necessary. However, that does not mean that one can only rely on a regular running exercise to lead a healthy lifestyle. A balanced, nutritious diet where one makes sure to take in all the nutrients regularly is just as important.

What are the downsides to running?

The joints that running most intensely affects are knees, back and hips. They become more prone to injuries, particularly over time. Should the person not be in appropriate shape to go through such an intense exercise regime, they risk getting some very unpleasant and potentially dangerous injuries. That’s why warming up is very important, so that the muscles don’t suffer any unnecessary sudden movements which would lead to sprains. Also, cooling down is equally important.

Another thing that’s essential is to know one’s strength and not exaggerate for no good reason, and also to pay attention to the signs that the body is giving. These are the best ways to make sure to stay clear from getting hurt. Finally, running is not recommended for those who have a history of some kind of illness that running would interfere with.