Since spring is right around the corner, the warm weather brings more people running and working out outside. There are so many benefits to running, and in this article, we will explore a few. 

The first category of benefits we’re going to look at is the physical benefits of running. Running overall increases your endurance, which is your cardiovascular health. Your cardiovascular system is super important as it pumps nutrient-rich blood into your system as well as supplying oxygen and getting rid of toxins and waste. It does a lot for you so it’s important to keep it healthy and running smoothly.  Another physical benefit of running is building strong bones as well as strong muscles. It is important to keep both of these systems in check because they are what help you move. An active lifestyle in general can help you live longer and decrease many medical risks such as hypertension or stroke. Running or staying active can definitely help you in the long run!

Another category of running is the mental benefits. Running can put you in a better mood as well as improving how you move. Studies show, running can lead to a “relief in tension, improved self image and better mood”(Kenneth EC). This can help with depression as well as low self image and many more with little to no equipment. Both professional and non professional runners have shared in this experience and have found themselves happier and much healthier. After running your body also releases endorphins, also known as “Runners High,” causing you to be happy and in a good mood after you finish a run. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment, which I found can also help mood. 

Lastly, having a friend to run with you can also have many benefits along with running itself. It’s always fun to workout or run with friends, and you can help push each other to be better. You can also join a running club, which you can make new friends in as well as share a common goal with them. Companionship is proven to help your mood, and you can both become healthier and happier together. 

In conclusion, running helps all areas of your life and can really improve your health and your mood, and you can get your friends to do it with you. If you want to run at school, there is cross country, indoor track and spring track, year-round, or you could join the many run clubs across the Triangle area.