Run for Your Life -- Literally!
By Genevieve Cunningham
Running is a habit that has diehard fans and blatant enemies. Most people seem to fall on one side or the other and then stay there. But there are a few people who fall somewhere in the middle. They may like the idea of running, but not really know where to start. If this is you, take a look at these good reasons to pick up a running habit today, followed by some simple tips for getting started.
Great Reasons to Run
If you’re thinking about beginning a running habit, there are some great reasons to do so. A few good reasons to pick up the practice and make it a part of your life include:
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Weight loss - Because running requires massive energy burn, it’s possible and even likely that keeping up the habit will lead to weight loss.
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Endurance - Endurance simply means that you can do more activity without getting tired. This can be beneficial in exercise, but also in the normal activities of everyday life.
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The runner’s high - After you’ve been running for so long, you get the infamous runner’s high. This is a euphoric feeling that hits the body and mind and makes you feel incredible even while you’re logging the miles.
How to Get Started
Running can feel intimidating at first. To get started and make the habit stick, take a look at these tips:
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Start slowly - If you haven’t been running, don’t go out and run a couple of miles. You’ll burn yourself out. Instead, run for a very small amount of time, perhaps only one or two minutes, and then work up from there.
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Get a partner - Everything is easier with a companion. Find someone else who would like to pick up the habit and do it together.
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Set a goal - To keep you moving, try setting a goal. Pick a fun 5K, a trendy fun run, or something similar, and work toward making it happen.
Running is a great habit, and one that might help you stay in the best shape of your life. If you think it might be something that you’d like to include in your life, just use these tips to get started. With some practice, some perseverance, and a little patience, running can be a lifelong habit that makes your health, perspective, and life just a little bit better every day.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Pasadena, Calif.