As you might expect, the team here at Run Republic are running nuts. We enjoy running for what it is, a past time and a way to stay fit. Sure, some of us have marathons on the horizon, but the team is made up of runners of very differing abilities. Last week we had to ask ourselves, why do we like running? A simple enough question, but surprisingly difficult to put down on paper.
Now, a quick disclaimer, we're not saying you'll look as happy as the two young people above, that was just a nice picture we bought. Truth be told, when we run, we look like a sweaty mess, but it's all worth it... we promise!!
We will expand on each of these topics in later blogs. If you have any questions, be sure to get in touch with us via [email protected]
REASON 1 - MEET NEW PEOPLE
There is a perception, that running is something you do on your own. A boring past time where all you do is run around in circles. Sure, some training will be done on your own, and running can be great to clear your head, but we suggest joining a running group such as a Couch to 5K (C25K), local running club, walking club, or even a local running group. These people are all really supportive, and will help you every step of the way. Having a group of accountabilibuddies will really get you through those tough times when you feel running is getting tough.
The great thing is through planning races, pints, coffees, or Parkruns, you will find that these groups become great friends, and is one of the top reasons to get into running.
REASON 2 - GET HEALTHIER
We all strive to be healthier. While sometimes we may succumb to the odd takeaway, pint, or bar of chocolate, choosing a healthier lifestyle is great for your physical and mental health. Running, like so many other sports, is great for your heart and body.
Running is a great way to strengthen your heart and improve the flow of blood and oxygen around your body, which helps decrease your risk of a heart attacks and heart disease. Running, and exercise in general along with along with a balanced diet, is one of the best ways to naturally reduce your blood pressure and cholesterol if it's above normal. Running also improves your immune system, so your body functions are more effective and efficient at fighting off sickness.
There is also academic evidence about the benefits of running on reducing mortality rates. You can read more about that here: STUDY: Running Reduces Cardiovascular Mortality Risk
REASON 3 - LOSE WEIGHT
Those few mince pies at Christmas are a great catalyst for many people start running to try to lose those extra few pounds. Running is an extremely efficient way to burn calories and lose weight, especially in our tropical Irish climate! Even if your weight and BMI are ok, running is a great way to maintain your weight. As we get older, our metabolisms slow down, so exercise becomes more important to maintain our weight.
REASON 4 - STRESS RELIEF
Our lives are getting busier by the year! We have less time in which we have to do more. Be it at work, personal life, or even just getting fit, finding the time for everything can be a chore in itself.
With all these time constraints, we find stress building like knots in our stomachs. Small little things can suddenly seem like insurmountable challenges. Personally, I find running to be a huge help. Taking the time out of your day to unwind, or to really push hard depending on the day you had, can be massive help. Even having the time to think about what you have on your plate, giving yourself the space to actually think logically about whats going on around you, makes you much happier.
Fitting in training to your lifestyle will also have a big help on task management and time management. While some of these benefits are subjective, there is some science behind it. When you go running, you boost your brain’s serotonin levels, regular exercise might actually remodel the brain, making it calmer and more stress resistant. We'll follow this up with an academic article to prove the point at a later date.
If things are becoming too much, while running definitely helps to reduce stress, there are also fantastic supports available like Pieta House. Ever run, and every problem, taken one by one, can be overcome!
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COMPETITION COMING SOON: We have a great competition starting from January 1st. All you have to do isJoin our Club on Strava, run when you can in January, post your run to Social Media with the #runrepublic, and if you feel like some bonus points, start your own blog on Run Republic. To sign up for more info, just fill in your email address below.
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We will be adding to this list in time, so if you have any benefits you feel should be listed, reach out on social media, comment below, or email us on [email protected]