The Run

Hello, angel faces. So, I just got in from today’s 5k (I run a 5k six days of the week as part of my workout, more on that in the near future) and I have to say, running has definitely saved my life. I know that sounds really freaking dramatic, but I mean it! Running is so vitally important to me that one of my deepest fears is losing my legs. (Another of my deepest fears? Wooden puppets.) Anyway, let me tell you about some of the benefits I have gained from running. If you need a little inspiration to add running to your workout, maybe this post will help.

First, running can be done solo or with a friend. Personally, I prefer running alone, but as a general rule, I’m kind of a lone wolf (which is code for “anti-social loser.” THE INTERWEB IS MY PEER GROUP.) The solitude I experience while running is a large part of what makes the run so valuable. For about 20 minutes (or more if I’m running a longer route), I am disconnected from other people: no internet, no phone calls, no text messages, no idle chatter—just my thoughts and I. However, if you would prefer to run with a buddy, there are definitely some benefits there, as well. Running with a friend encourages you. If you are new to running and you need some motivation, it will definitely help to have a buddy be your cheerleader. My cross country coach always made us run in pairs and he encouraged us to talk to one another. Apparently, it helps your breathing patterns and lung capacity.

Second, running is the perfect way to get outdoors and soak up some vitamin D. It seems like most people spend their day in front of a screen of some sort, whether it be that of a computer, TV, tablet, or cell phone. Sunlight—in healthy dosages, of course—is really good for us! It’s warm and smells good and is a source of vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones (among a host of other things; click the link for more: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/161618.php).

Now, sometimes you can’t run outside. Maybe the weather is unfriendly, or maybe there isn’t a good route near your home. (I personally avoid running in any weather below 65 degrees Fahrenheit, because apparently I am a cold-blooded reptilian freak-baby.) In that case, running at the local gym is a great option. I’m an introvert by nature, but going to the gym and even taking some fitness classes has gained me several good friends over the years. Unless you want to be a neck-bearded basement dweller with no real-world companions, then I suggest you use your gym visits as an opportunity to meet some fellow humans. Granted, there seem to be a lot of douchebags—particularly in the weightlifting sections—but eventually you’ll learn how to steer clear.

The final benefit of running that I want to address may not apply to everyone. In fact, I need to do some research and see if I’m the only one who experiences this particular benefit, which is, basically, happiness. And I don’t mean the standard “I feel good because I wasn’t a lard-ass today” happiness, I mean the “I was totally depressed and bitter before this run but now I feel like bluebirds and chocolate cake” happiness. I’m not kidding. If I’m feeling depressed, lonely, anxious, etc., then a run never fails to boost my spirits. In fact, if I go too long without running, I notice a definite decline in overall happiness. I guess it could be the endorphins, but I’m wondering if there’s something more.

All right, ducklings! Thanks for stopping by. Please feel free to share your running stories in the comments section below! See you tomorrow!