Why Should We Run?

This is a common question that most people ask themselves everyday. They almost always end up answering the question with excuses as to why they should not run. They never actually focus on the benefits of running and why they should run.

I'll be listing the 9 top reasons why you SHOULD run.

1. It will help you to lose weight

Running, along with wrestling, is said to be the most strenuous sports, and most doctors agree on that. Have you ever wanted to lose those extra pounds that you gained during summer? Well, now is your chance to do so. Running helps you lose more pounds than basketball, soccer, etc because it is a continuous run. Moreover, it is also the most cost-effective method of losing those pounds, without the side-effects that most people dread of.

2. It will help you to maintain a steady weight and keep you in shape

Even if you don't want to lose weight, you would most certainly require to keep yourself in shape. For most people, keeping up their shape is the most important aspect of their overall look. A well planned and coordinated running plan, helps you to keep in shape, and all set.

3. Running tones your body

The difference between running and weight lifting is, that while weight lifting you do bulk up, however, while running, you will lose the fat, not the muscles. You can keep your thighs, your arms, etc in exactly the way you want to. Infact, if you feel you are under weight, run less, but do run to keep your body in tone.

4. Get some time for yourself

While this may not be a physical advantage of running, it sure is effective. If you are tired of your friends, homework, kids, house chores, or anything. Just go off and run. Breathe in and breathe out. This gives you some time to think deeply and contemplate on whatever you want to. Maybe some project that you are working on, or some issue that's been bothering you.

5. It makes your competitive

Have you always wanted to be competitive? Do you believe that's good for athletes only? Well, simple answer to that is NO! You can always race against others, or maybe go to a 5K and race against yourself. Try to beat your laps, your own times. You can always be competitive. In any way that you please.

6. Go ahead, and socialize, or maybe run alone

If you feel that you need time for yourself, just go out alone and run. Or maybe, if you are in the mood to run along with someone, you can always call up a friend, and invite him over to run with you. Or maybe, just head over to the 5K, and you'll probably be surprised at the number of new friends you can make over there.

7. It builds Self-Esteem

Do you feel that you are a total loser out there? Even if you are the last one, you always gain confidence in yourself as a runner. You watch yourself as you improve among your very own times. You outrun yourself, beat your own records. You know that you are having fun, keeping your body in shape, and losing weight. While the others are out there sleeping and wasting away those mornings. You can be the energetic 'you'. It helps you to build confidence in yourself, and helps you in life.

8. Feel young again

Everyone would love to be active at 85, instead of rushing off to their retirement homes, and doing nothing but being the lazy couch potato. Infact, most people at 35 would love to be 25 again. Running helps you to stay active. What's more? It prevents most types of diseases that occur due to lack of activity. Why not prevent the diseases that you can? Running not only keeps you healthy and active, but also increases your quality of life.

9. Running is fun

Most people might strongly disagree with this point. But, once you are in habit, you know how much fun it is. Your body is lazy, and wants to lie around. But the mind is active. You want to run. Life is in your complete control. You learn to appreciate things. Nature, people, social life, everything has a meaning. Running is your source of pleasure, health, enjoyment. An outlet for all your problems, tense situations, etc.

So just go out there and start running. It may seem difficult. The sudden change in your lifestyle, and schedule. But, as you get used to it, you'll enjoy it more and more.