New Year, New Runner…10 Reasons to Start (or continue) Running in 2012

We have all heard it and most of us have probably said it, “I will lose 10,20,30… pounds this year” or “I will start exercising more this year.” Many of us start out really strong and do great…until about Valentine’s Day.  However, instead of just saying “I will lose weight”, why not set a more specific goal and start running?

Yes, I can hear the excuses now…”I have bad knees”, “I have no time”, “It is too hard”, and on and on. Everybody has an excuse as to why NOT to run, but here are 10 reasons that you should run:

1.     Healthy Heart: Running is great for your cardiovascular system. It has been proven to lower blood pressure and overall cholesterol.

2.    Old as Dirt: People have been running for YEARS. Why? Because all you really need is a pair of legs.

3.    Don’t Worry, Be Happy: Running is great for your overall happiness too.  On a run, your body releases endorphins which are known as the “feel good” hormone…it is also what allows you to hit a “runner’s high”.

4.    Burn Calories while Sitting: Yup, runners burn more calories at rest. 

5.    Anytime, Anywhere: You can run anywhere at any time.  On vacation? Just pack a pair of running shoes and shorts and you are ready to go.  It is a GREAT way to discover new places.

6.    Escape for “Me” Time: If you are like me (and most of the U.S. population) you are BUSY! Between work, family, and laundry, there is little time left for you.  Lace up those sneakers before work and get some time for yourself before the craziness of your day begins. No matter how busy my day is, I always try to fit in a run, whether it has to be before the sun rises or even after it sets.

7.    Catch up with a Buddy: Don’t think you will be consistent or do you just need to catch up with that friend you keep meaning to call? Enlist them to start running with you, burn calories together while catching up.

8.    Lose that Belly Fat: The real reason most of you want to run, lose that belly fat and keep it off.

9.    Live Longer and Cancer Free: Studies have shown that regular runners live longer than their non running peers. Recently, new studies have found that running can lower your chances of developing several types of cancer.

10.  FREE: No gym fees or fancy equipment.  The most expensive thing about running is buying a pair of tennis shoes, which most of us own in the first place!

 There they are 10 good reasons to start running this year. Need more? Well, I could go on and on about how great running is for your life socially, physically, and mentally.

The point is, you have to start somewhere, so get out tomorrow morning and run a mile… or two, whatever feels good and right to you. Trust me, once you start running, you will not want to stop.