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Born to run: The health benefits of jogging. If you are looking for a new form of exercise with a range of physical and mental health benefits, running could be for you. While it may be daunting to dig out those old trainers and give jogging it a whirl, your body will reap the rewards once you establish a consistent running routine. Here's a rundown of the health benefits, according to Dr Dave Nichols, NHS GP and resident doctor at MyHealthChecked. Increased cardiovascular fitness For starters, running is great for your heart and lung health. "(It) improves how well the heart and lungs supply the oxygen you need to exercise around the body, allowing you to exercise more easily and for longer at moderate to higher intensities," Reduces the risk of certain medical conditions Regular running improves your overall health and reduces your risk of developing conditions including diabetes, obesity and cancer, whilst also helping to develop a healthy immune system. Builds muscle and strengthens bones Running helps you build strength in both your muscles and your bones. "(It) builds muscle and strengthens your bones which in turn helps to improve your bone mineral density and reduces the risk of developing osteoporosis," Improves sleep If you have trouble falling asleep at night, regular exercise such as running could be the answer, as people who work out consistently "have been shown to sleep better", according to the GP. Improves mood and reduces stress As well as improving your physical health, running can also be good for your mental health. "Running helps release happy chemicals known as endorphins which can help to improve our mood, whilst reducing stress levels.” Improves brain function Running can also help improve your concentration and memory by influencing chemicals such as serotonin. For those looking to get into running, the doctor recommends selecting good footwear and gradually increasing the duration and intensity of your run to reduce the risk of injury.
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