Better for a run

Welcome to my blog! Better for a run is about the simple pleasure of going for a run and feeling so much better having done it. So why is it better?

I’m not a medical professional or athletic coach, so don’t expect to quoted any science here! I’m just an average guy who was never good at sport at school but later in my life persuaded myself to try running.

Today I can’t imagine a week without running, and in the times I have been injured or really busy I really notice the difference to my mood, and usually quite quickly my weight!

The reasons why you may feel better for a run maybe different to why I feel better for a run, but from my experience running is:

Better for mood – You will no doubt have heard of the runner’s high and I know however bad my day has been, running helps me put these stresses behind me, and see things in perspective.

Better for ideas – I have a busy job where I am often having to grapple with difficult decisions or just work out what we do next. A fascinating thing is that I can take a problem out with me and get that lightbulb moment that helps me to move it forward. I am not saying you can solve the world’s problems pounding the pavements but you might just move on from that mental block.

Better for friendships – There are so many people running nowadays. Running clubs are in place in most towns and cities and provide great places for meeting new people and making new friends. In my experience they have a full range of abilities so don’t feel intimidated. Most will run a Couch to 5K programme to get you started. Parke runs which run most Saturday mornings are great and welcoming events. You will also find you are part of the wider running community. On most runs I will see other runners and get that friendly “hi” even if early in the morning or in the evening.

Better for your weight – As a man I don’t weigh myself very often. However a routine Dr’s healthcheck a couple of years ago (after a period off from running) showed I was obese. By running, and more sensible eating (but not diets), I have got my weight back to what it should be for my age.

Better for challenging yourself – Running gives endless opportunities to set yourselves new goals and challenges in your life. Whether it is finishing a particular distance, beating your personal best, or just challenging yourself to step out the door, it gives you something to focus on and improve yourself.

So there you are. I definitely feel better for a run. Whether you are thinking about running or a regular runner, I hope you feel better for a run too!