Introduction
Are you a runner? Or does the thought of a daily jog make you feel queasy?
Though the idea of running sounds exhausting to some, it’s a great way to get active and can benefit your professional life too. From better sleep to a positive attitude, runners benefit from various unique running advantages. Are you ready to join them?
Keep reading if you’re curious about running or want to add some extra activity into the working week. We’ve gathered everything you need to know to learn more about running.
Ready, set, go!
Adding Positive Changes To Your Life
From standing desks to vegan diets, many of us are focusing on health and wellness this year. In the post-pandemic world, we’ve shifted from hustle culture, and more of us are trying to enjoy life while being responsible for our bodies. Instead of grinding away in an office without movement, there’s a shift to get active during the day via extra workouts and walking.
But many are also embracing running!
Running is an easy way to add a health boost to your day, and it takes half the time of walking too. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner, getting active will make a difference in how you feel. You don’t need to complete a daily marathon. Even a 10-minute run will have a positive effect on your life.
Let’s look at the key benefits of running during the work week.
Mood Boost
The prospect of work isn’t always exciting. Though many of us do enjoy our jobs, it’s sometimes hard to get up and go when you know you’ll be sitting in an office for the entire day.
Adding a quick run into the mix will break up your day and give you something else to look forward to. For example, runners who work out before work have a mental break before arriving at the office. On the other hand, if you choose to run in the evening, you’ll have something to look forward to at the end of the day.
Running releases endorphins, giving your brain a boost of positivity. Many studies show that runners experience better moods than their inactive counterparts. So, are you ready to put your rose-tinted glasses on?
Wake Your Body Up Naturally
This benefit might not be for everyone as we all work at different rhythms. Consider using your mornings for a pre-work run if you’re a natural early-riser. Many runners swear by an early run as this exercise wakes their brains naturally - no need for countless cups of coffee here!
If you want to reduce your caffeine intake and the unfavourable side effects that come with it (we’re looking at you shakes and sleeplessness), consider a jog before you hit the coffee shop.
The best way to embrace morning runs is to start slow and slowly build up. Creating habits takes time, so don’t expect to run 10km on your first try. You’ve got this!
Anxiety Reduction
If you’ve noticed that modern life is leaving you restless and nervous, it might be time to add some running into your routine. A daily run reduces work-related anxiety and stress, leaving you with a clearer head.
Like meditation, running allows you to focus on your body and breathing. You can also add feel-good tunes into the activity to take your mind into a positive space. Remember, exercise isn’t just good for the body - it helps the mind too!
Better Physical Fitness
Though we stress the importance of running and the mind, we can’t deny it helps your physical fitness.
Running helps you to lower your blood pressure, resting heart rate, lower cholesterol, and it can improve your blood sugar control. It’s also been proven to improve your joint health, strengthen your immune system, and it’s an effective weight loss exercise.
If you want to feel healthier within your body, a quick daily run will do the trick!
Improved Sleep
Another benefit runners experience is better sleep. Nothing’s worse than laying down in bed, unable to drift off due to stress or excess caffeine consumption.
Are you ready to shift your sleep schedule and feel well-rested in the morning? Running might be for you. Runners experience better sleep, higher levels of alertness, and better psychological functioning. Goodbye, brain fog!
Longer Life
Finally, many runners commit to their daily exercise because running leads to a longer life.
Thanks to all the benefits listed above, running boosts your body and makes you healthier in nearly all areas. Pair running with a balanced diet, a healthy social life, and an excellent work-life balance, and you’ll feel unstoppable.
Final Thoughts
Though getting started might seem like a mountain, take the journey slow. Challenge yourself to run for 15 minutes daily and watch your progress improve. Don’t focus on distance. It’s always best to start with time intervals to get your body used to the exercise. Are you feeling pumped and ready to go? Good luck and enjoy.
Want to learn more lifestyle tips? Find our full blog here.