
Runners are a little bit crazy; there’s no way around that. There are plenty of lower impact sports out there that don’t include miles and miles on the pavement or a trail, sore legs and often-ugly feet. But there’s something magical about running; there’s an enthusiastic optimism even when we’re hurting, and one cheer from a spectator at a race can break down even the highest of walls. If that’s not enough to convince you to lace up, here are 10 reasons to start running:
It’s relatively cheap.
All you need to run is a good pair of running shoes. Once you have a pair of those, the world is your treadmill. Go run the trail by the river, or head out to your favorite neighborhoods for a jog. Granted, races tend to be pretty spendy, but if you aren’t entering any then running will remain a really cheap sport.
It’s good for you.
When you run, you don’t just strengthen your legs; you also strengthen your heart and keep your cholesterol down. And it’s good for your immune system. And it increases your bone density, helping you fend off osteoporosis. And it’ll help you lose weight and keep it off.
It’s a great way to explore your city.
Want to head out into the streets and see your city from a different viewpoint? Run through it. Chances are you’ll find places you didn’t know were there and you might learn new and better routes to get around town.
You can run for a cause.
If you do decide to do a race, you’ll get the chance to run for a great cause—since most benefit charities. When you run for something you believe in, it definitely helps add some motivation that’ll keep you going the full distance.
You can do it anywhere.
This is the sport/exercise you can take with you everywhere. All you need to do is pack your running shoes. Take a jog on the beach while on vacation, or check out a new city when you’re away on a work trip. Or, you know, head out on a great trail run while on a camping trip.
You can do it anytime.
Despite the time of year and the weather, it’s still possible to run. Even when it’s snowy and cold, you can either head inside for a treadmill jog, or bundle up and prepare to burn even more calories on a great winter run.
You’ll increase your stamina.
Running will help increase your stamina in basically every other physical activity you do. It’ll make workouts and other sports a little bit easier and more enjoyable, as well as, ahem, other areas in your life.
You’ll meet new people.
Even if you only ever run solo and never do any races, if you keep a regular running schedule, chances are you’ll start to see the same faces. This could lead to a future potential running buddy, or maybe you’ll just exchange names or smile at each other each day. Either way, there’s definitely extra motivation in knowing you’ll get to see someone familiar out there.
You’ll get more energy.
If you run in the morning, you’ll get yourself a nice energy boost that might just last you through the day. But overall, even one run can help defeat fatigue and fight sluggishness. It’s a natural stimulant and better for you than that fourth cup of coffee.
You’ll feel better about yourself.
Combine all of the above and what do you have? A more inspired, higher self-esteemed you. You’ll feel proud of the accomplishments in your personal runs, like when you break your own records for your fastest miles, and, if you decide to do races, when you accomplish your first 5k, 10k, 15k, half-marathon and maybe even marathon.