Apple has recently seen a surge in popularity among runners. In fact, running apps that simulate the experience of running an actual race are quickly becoming one of the most popular fitness trends of 2018.
Apple has recently seen a surge in popularity among runners. In fact, running apps that simulate the experience of running an actual race are quickly becoming one of the most popular fitness trends of 2018. The notion of running a virtual race is appealing to runners of all ages and experience levels. From novices to veterans, everyone can appreciate the benefits of running on a regular basis. The following list highlights five of the top benefits of running as well as tips on how to start and continue running.
Table of Contents
Strength training
Running can be a great workout for your legs, but it is also an excellent workout for your core and back muscles. Running, while increasing your heart rate, also increases the number of calories you burn while at rest as a result of increased muscle mass. Running also improves flexibility and coordination, both of which are important aspects of overall strength and fitness.
Balances appetite and fuel
Before you begin tracking calories, it’s a good idea to first learn the basics of how your body metabolizes fuel. What’s more, understanding how your body’s fuel process works will help you ensure that you’re eating enough while still staying within the healthy range of fuel intake.
Fuel is the source of energy your body uses to power daily life activities and exercise. There are three main types of fuel your body can use for these activities:
Carbohydrates, also known as glucose, are the body’s main source of fuel. When you’re active, your body can handle about 2.5 to 5 grams of glucose per second.
Fat is another type of fuel, but it doesn’t supply as much energy as glucose. Therefore, when you’re active, your body uses fat as a backup, or “emergency,” source of fuel.
Protein, which is also known as amino acids, is the least-used source of fuel.
Feeling good after running
One of the greatest rewards of running is how good you feel on the days following a run. Even after a short workout, your body is able to burn fuel at a much higher rate than normal. This higher rate of fuel use has been shown to produce endorphins, which can help you feel less stressed and fatigued.
In addition, a post-run workout is a great opportunity to improve your running form. Pay close attention to your stride, landing, and push-off. The more consistent your form, the better you will feel when you run.
Self-confidence boost
Many runners report feeling more self-confident after they begin running. This is likely due to the fact that running can provide an excellent foundation for building confidence. You will soon realize that running requires all of your body’s strength and muscles, not just your legs!
Some additional benefits of running include feeling good overall, both physically and mentally. Running also helps you build muscle, lose weight, improve mental health and decrease stress.
Connects you to nature
In addition to the fitness and strength-training benefits of running, it also helps connect you to nature. Running outside is a great way to take advantage of all the great benefits of the outdoors, such as the fresh air and sunshine. Plus, wandering through a park or trail during a run gives you an opportunity to be grateful for all that you have.
Finding the right balance of run and walk
One of the most important aspects of running is finding the correct balance between running and walking. In general, it’s beneficial to aim for a run of about 30 minutes, followed by a short walk of about 3 minutes.
Run too much and you risk injury while walking too much also means you’re doing nothing for your body. Aim for the right amount of time to run and walk and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of running.
Conclusion
Thanks to the growth of running apps and the desire to experience the exhilarating feeling of competing in a race, more people than ever are becoming runners. But while running can be beneficial, it is not for everyone.
If you are considering starting a new running routine, there are a few things you should keep in mind. The top five benefits of running are strength training, balancing appetite and fuel, feeling good after running, self-confidence boost, and connecting you to nature, but each runner has to find the right balance between running and walking to make each one a reality.
