Benefits of Running and Walking
You’ve probably heard the age-old adage…Running and Walking is not only good for your health but are good for your soul too! Numerous studies have been conducted that highlight the importance of regular exercise for overall well-being. And two of the most beneficial exercises are running and walking.
Both running and walking provide numerous physical and mental health benefits. You can either run or walk every single day, or you can incorporate a walk or run every other day into your varied exercise routine. Experts suggest that brisk walking for about 30 minutes at a moderate speed every day can burn 150 to 200 calories. Additionally, a long walk or run can clear your thoughts and calm you down.
Studies have shown that regular walking and running can help prevent obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and some kinds of cancer. Below are just some of the numerous benefits of running and walking.
Walking or running helps you get fit and burn more calories: While exercising burns calories when you are working out, the good news is, that the burn continues after you stop exercising. Studies have shown that walking or running boosts “afterburn,” which is the number of calories you burn after exercise. So, all you need to do is walk or run moderately briskly to enjoy the benefits long after you stop exercising.
It helps you live longer: A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, found that runners and brisk walkers tend to live longer than those who do not perform these exercises regularly. Another study by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that running or walking for even 5 to 10 minutes a day can substantially reduce the risk of death from all disease, including cardiovascular disease.
It improves your mood and makes you happier: If you exercise regularly, you’ve probably experienced this. A “runner’s high” is something that all runners have experienced at some time or the other. This is caused by the release of feel-good hormones called endocannabinoids. Regular exercise also protects you from depression and helps you cope with anxiety and stress. A study published in 2012 in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that just 30 minutes of running during the week for 3 weeks boosted sleep quality, mood, and concentration.
It boosts your Vitamin D levels: If you run or walk outdoors, this is an excellent way to boost your Vitamin D levels. Around 41.6 % of Americans are deficient in this vitamin. Deficiency in Vitamin D can result in cardiovascular disease, bone pain, muscle weakness, and cancer. Running and walking outdoors is one way to combat this.
It helps keep your eyes healthy: Research conducted in 2013 reported that those who walked or ran an average of 5 miles per day, had a 41% lower risk of developing cataract and age-related vision loss or blindness.
It is good for old age: While remaining active during your old age is a good thing, running and walking also help improve mobility and other health parameters in older adults. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, those older adults who had a habit of walking or running in their youth were more mobile and independent during their old age.
It helps fight the common cold: Even a quick, 30-minute workout can stimulate and boost your immune system and prevent you from catching a cold. Also, running and walking for about 30 to 45 minutes every day can improve a person’s immunity and help them fight off most diseases and illnesses.
It improves sleep in postmenopausal women: Many post-menopausal women experience hot flushes and sweats at night. Walking and running helps these women fall asleep more easily.
It can reduce your risk of cancer: While running and walking cannot cure cancer, it can help prevent it. Studies also show that running helps improve your quality of life while you are undergoing chemotherapy.
It adds years to your life: Even if you exercise for just the minimum amount of time – 30 minutes, five times a week – you’ll probably live longer. Studies conducted show that everyone benefits from running and walking including those suffering from cardiovascular disease and cancer.
So, now you know the many benefits of running and walking. Whether you’re a beginner when it comes to running and walking or a veteran, you will need the right gear to help you walk and run in an optimal way.
Super Jock ‘n Jill is the place to go to for all your sporting needs. Super Jock ‘n Jill is a sporting goods stores that stock the gear you need for your walking and running exercise program. However, it is also a place where novice and expert runners can get together to swap stories and help each other.
Super Jock ‘n Jill organizes weekly runs every Monday and Tuesday night. The Monday Night Run meets at 6.15 pm every Monday at the Super Jock ‘n Jill Greenlake store. It is a social run that is open to all pace levels. The Tuesday Night Run meet at 6.15 pm every Tuesday at the Super Jock ‘n Jill Redmond store and is also open to all pace levels.
Besides these weekly runs, Super Jock ‘n Jill also organizes medical nights at both their Redmond and Greenlake locations. During these medical nights, Super Jock ‘n Jill hosts local podiatrists, physical therapists, sports medicine doctors, and massage practitioners at both their stores. This not only helps runners get advice on fitness, but helps them find out about injury prevention, training, and medical issues.
So, whether you’re interested in sports gear for running and walking, or any of our events, Super Jock ‘n Jill is the place to go! For those of you who are dedicated or novice runners and walkers, what more could you ask for?
For more information on the many benefits of running and walking and the right gear, contact Super Jock ‘n Jill at 425-658-4929 or at 206-522-7711 and at info@superjocknjill.com.