Running has become an increasingly popular activity over the decades. It simply requires a good pair of running shoes, and is a workout one can do on their own time. One doesn’t have to worry about going to the gym to have a good run.

Earlier, Elijah McClain had spoken about how running can be a great aerobic activity if one manages to keep their pace and energy expenditure fairly consistent. Distance running and endurance training can especially be good for the health.

There are many benefits of running, including:

• Running improves the heart condition: Running can be a good cardiovascular workout that enhances heart health. Over time, it helps the heart to pump more efficiently. Running can aid in keeping the arteries elastic so blood flows smoothly. Cardiovascular exercise like running also has a role to play in lowering the blood pressure and bad (LDL) cholesterol, and  increases good (HDL) cholesterol, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease
• Running boosts weight loss: Running is an excellent way to burn fat. As it involves large muscle groups, running can effectively burn calories. Regular running goes a long way in boosting metabolism and helps maintain a healthy body weight by burning fat effectively.
• Running strengthens bone structure: Running is considered to be a weight-bearing exercise. The pounding on the ground while running puts stress on the skeletal system, which in turn helps in boosting bone mineral density (BMD). Higher BMD means stronger bones. Running regularly can hence help in reducing the risk of osteoporosis, falls and fractures as you age.
• Running stimulates the brain: Running and other aerobic exercises may trigger brain cell growth in the hippocampus, which is the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory. Running also aids in developing the areas of the brain that are responsible for controlling movement, coordination and long-term memory. Studies suggest that running improves cognitive function, enhances concentration, and boosts memory. It promotes brain health by increasing neuroplasticity and reducing cognitive decline.
• Running enhances emotional and psychological well-being: Running releases natural feel-good hormones known as endorphins. Distance running can particularly provide people with the much needed time and space to clear their mind and think through a problem. In many ways, running acts as a natural stress buster. It can instantly lift up the mood of a person and provide them with a sense of well-being.
• Running improves sleep quality: Regular exercise, including running, can improve sleep patterns and aid in achieving better quality sleep, leading to a refreshed and rejuvenated mind.

Earlier, Elijah McClain had spoken about how one doesn’t have to be a marathon runner to enjoy the health benefits of running, simply running for 20 minutes daily would be enough to give the muscles a good workout. Moreover, running is an entirely inexpensive workout method, save for the cost of a pair of good running shoes.​ As a moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise, running offers a range of benefits, even to a recreational runner. The benefits of running extend far beyond physical fitness, and can considerably improve the quality of life of a person.