News
October 25, 2025
3 little-known benefits of running
We know running is a great form of cardio fitness – i.e. it gets your heart pumping. Yet, there are some lesser-known benefits of lacing up, writes Laura Hampson.
Beyond the Burn: Unearthing 3 Surprising Perks of Running
We all know running is fantastic for our cardiovascular health. It gets our heart pumping, helps us shed pounds, and generally makes us feel more energetic. But according to Laura Hampson, the benefits of this popular exercise extend far beyond the obvious. It turns out that regularly hitting the pavement can have some surprising positive effects on your life that you might not have considered.
One of the most overlooked advantages of running is its positive impact on bone health. While it might seem counterintuitive, the impact of your feet hitting the ground actually stimulates bone growth and density. This is especially important as we age, as bone density naturally declines, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. By putting your bones through regular, controlled stress, running helps to strengthen them and keep them healthy for longer. So, while you're working on your cardio, you're also building a stronger skeletal system.
Another unexpected benefit of running is its ability to boost your mood and cognitive function. It’s not just about that post-run “runner’s high.” Studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise, like running, can improve memory, focus, and overall brain function. The increased blood flow to the brain helps nourish brain cells and promote the growth of new connections. Moreover, running releases endorphins, natural mood boosters that can alleviate stress and anxiety. So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed, consider swapping screen time for some time on the track – your brain will thank you for it.
Finally, running can significantly improve your sleep quality. A consistent running routine helps regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. The physical exertion of running can also help to tire you out, promoting deeper and more restful sleep. However, it's important to avoid running too close to bedtime, as the adrenaline rush can have the opposite effect. A morning or afternoon run is ideal for maximizing the sleep-enhancing benefits.
So, next time you're thinking about skipping your run, remember these lesser-known benefits. Running isn't just about physical fitness; it's about building stronger bones, boosting your brainpower, and improving your sleep. Lace up those shoes and experience the holistic benefits of this simple, yet powerful, activity.
We all know running is fantastic for our cardiovascular health. It gets our heart pumping, helps us shed pounds, and generally makes us feel more energetic. But according to Laura Hampson, the benefits of this popular exercise extend far beyond the obvious. It turns out that regularly hitting the pavement can have some surprising positive effects on your life that you might not have considered.
One of the most overlooked advantages of running is its positive impact on bone health. While it might seem counterintuitive, the impact of your feet hitting the ground actually stimulates bone growth and density. This is especially important as we age, as bone density naturally declines, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. By putting your bones through regular, controlled stress, running helps to strengthen them and keep them healthy for longer. So, while you're working on your cardio, you're also building a stronger skeletal system.
Another unexpected benefit of running is its ability to boost your mood and cognitive function. It’s not just about that post-run “runner’s high.” Studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise, like running, can improve memory, focus, and overall brain function. The increased blood flow to the brain helps nourish brain cells and promote the growth of new connections. Moreover, running releases endorphins, natural mood boosters that can alleviate stress and anxiety. So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed, consider swapping screen time for some time on the track – your brain will thank you for it.
Finally, running can significantly improve your sleep quality. A consistent running routine helps regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. The physical exertion of running can also help to tire you out, promoting deeper and more restful sleep. However, it's important to avoid running too close to bedtime, as the adrenaline rush can have the opposite effect. A morning or afternoon run is ideal for maximizing the sleep-enhancing benefits.
So, next time you're thinking about skipping your run, remember these lesser-known benefits. Running isn't just about physical fitness; it's about building stronger bones, boosting your brainpower, and improving your sleep. Lace up those shoes and experience the holistic benefits of this simple, yet powerful, activity.
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Politics