5 Reasons to Start Running Now!

You know you should be doing it, it's easy, requires minimal
equipment and you know it's good for you. But for some reason
you just cant' bring yourself to hit the pavement. Running is
known to have both physical and psychological benefits. Even
running for as little as 60 minutes per week can improve your
overall health. But in case you needed more convincing, here's a
look at 5 reasons why you should start running today:

It's simple
Running is one of the simplest forms of exercise you can do. Just
grab your running shoes, do some light stretching and you're
off. It's simplicity that attracts many people to this form of
exercise in the first place. No intimidating gym equipment or
special gear needed.

Weight Loss
If your goal is to shed some pounds, running will prove to be
the most effective method. Because of the high energy needed
to run, you'll burn a lot of calories. To lose weight, you'll have to
burn more calories than you consume. Running will easily burn
more calories than any other exercise. On average, a runner can
burn up to 100 calories per each mile.

Improved Health
Runners benefit from overall improved health compared to non-
runners. Some of these benefits include low blood pressure,
decreased risk of heart problems, improved bone health and
lower risks of disease like stroke and breast cancer.

Goodbye Crankiness
Many runners attribute their low levels of stress and overall
good mood to consistent running. Thanks to the endorphins
released in your body when running, many claim to experience a
"runner's high." Running helps you focus on the task at hand,
since it's demanding and for many, it provides a way to clear the
mind.

Reverse Aging
Let's face it, gettinging older is not pleasant. The wear and tear on
our muscles and bones becomes evident as we grow older. But
running has been proven to slow down this process by
strengthening our muscles. It also promotes the human growth
hormone which helps you look and feel younger.

A. Evans is a writer and editor for FitandFabLiving. Sign up for free newsletters to receive all the latest health, beauty and fitness tips delivered straight to your inbox!