Running is a beneficial exercise that can provide numerous health benefits such as losing weight, improving cardiovascular health, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Research shows that running can also considerably decrease the risk of long-term hospitalization. This article will explore the latest findings and explain how running helps reduce hospitalization risk by 25%.
What are the benefits of running?
Running is one of the most efficient ways to burn calories and improve overall health. Studies demonstrate that regular running can help improve cardiovascular health by decreasing blood pressure and increasing good cholesterol levels.
Running regularly can also help to develop strong bones, promote muscle strength and endurance, and overall improve your physical capabilities.
Running reduces long-term hospitalization risk by 25%
There have been various studies to demonstrate the impact of exercise and running, in particular, on long-term hospitalization risk.
A study conducted by BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine in 2019 reviewed data from more than 34,000 participants over a 15-year period. Results revealed that regular runners had a lower risk of hospitalization and a lower risk of extensive-term hospitalization, particularly for cardiovascular disease.
The study showed that those who ran within the prescribed amount had a 16% reduced risk of hospitalization compared to non-runners; the risk reduced to 25% for extended-term hospitalization.
Prevention of chronic diseases through running
Running is an excellent way to prevent chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. These chronic diseases often cause long-term hospitalization and require ongoing care.
Research consistently shows that regular physical activity, including running, can considerably reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Running helps in maintaining a healthy weight, improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and lowering blood pressure, all of which significantly contribute to reducing long-term hospitalization.
Running for mental health
Not only does running help with physical health, but it also promotes mental well-being. Research shows that exercise and running release endorphins, neurotransmitters that provide a sense of pleasure and euphoria.
Running can also improve cognitive function and decrease anxiety and depression symptoms. When exercising, the brain releases serotonin and dopamine, chemicals that serve as natural mood boosters, making us feel happier and less anxious.
Mental health directly impacts your physical health; healthy mental health promotes healthy physical health.
Best practices for running safely
Running is an excellent exercise, but injuries can occur if you are not careful. To prevent injuries and ensure your safety, it is essential to follow the necessary precautions when running. Here are some best practices to follow while running:.
- Warm-up exercises before running.
- Choose proper running gear such as shoes that are comfortable and provide sufficient support.
- Gradually increase your duration and intensity of running to avoid overuse injuries.
- Stay hydrated while running.
- Take rest days to give your body adequate rest.
- Listen to your body and do not push yourself beyond your limits.
Conclusion
Running has indisputable benefits for physical and mental health. The advantage that running provides in reducing long-term hospitalization risk cannot be ignored.
Regular running drastically reduces the risk of chronic diseases and provides long-term health benefits for those who enjoy running.