Running is one of the most notable and oldest sports in history. In fact, running was officially recognized as a sport in 776 B.C.E. with the first event in the first Olympic Games the same year. This aerobic exertion cannot just be seen as entertainment but also as a way for a longer and healthier life, a fit body, and even better mental health!
In fact, according to the BetterHealth Channel, runners are at lower risk of diabetes, strokes, cardiovascular/heart diseases, and several cancers about 32.5% compared to inactive individuals. Running provides training, exercising, and building of all leg, core, and upper body muscles. This full-body workout needs a lot of energy, meaning lots of healthy foods. Believe it or not, some of the most basic foods that belong to the food groups are set in place and are there for a reason. Take bananas for example, they’re fruits that have lots of potassium which is a mineral and electrolyte that runners commonly eat before a race or run to help avoid side stitches and muscle cramps. Even when not on a run, bananas support weight loss when on a diet due to being low in calories. Another nutritious dish that runners like to eat is pasta. Pasta has carbohydrates that can be turned into glycerin which is later used for energy as the runner’s body starts to work. Not to mention, the tomatoes in the sauce contain vitamin B which helps release even more energy throughout the body during a run.
Going back to a fit body, it is only natural for someone for anyone to start to become lean as they start to work more. Running, (as stated earlier) is a full-body workout. During a running workout, it’ll require abdominal muscles to contract which would increase muscle size in that area leading to ABS! However, running is mainly centered around the leg muscles which still even help build more muscles in the calves, thighs, and hamstrings through the constant pressure put on the legs while on a run.
While running, not just the physical health of the runner is affected but also the mental. During a run, most runners commonly experience what is known as a “runner’s high” where endorphins – hormones that improve mood and lower stress, are released in the brain. According to Hopkins Medicine, running can also improve memory and focus, brighten up mood, and improve task-switching ability. Running can even promote better sleep due to the body releasing chemicals that help the body relax both during and after the run which encourages deeper sleep.
Eja Bailey, a 7th grade student who participated in the 2023 Cross Country meet for the Hart District junior highs’ believes that running is a great way to exercise and “all the exercise you should get”, she states. “Getting better at running, getting fit and healthy” are several things that Bailey thinks are one of the most important parts of running.
Whether cross country, track and field, or even just because – running is a great aerobic activity that improves both physical and emotional well-being that you can do anywhere no matter where you live or who you are.