I was an intense runner three years ago.
Then, everything stopped. I lost my enthusiasm for running because I had to focus on work, family, and more work. Well, that’s just an excuse. Perhaps I became lazy and unmotivated to run.
I always told myself I’d be back at it again. I even tried running, but it never became consistent.
At the end of last month (May 2024), I finally decided to go for it again. I was still unsure of whether this would become a regular thing, which I wanted. In my first run after almost a year, I completed 5 km. I was proud and happy with myself. My motivation spiked high. I rested for two days and got back at it again. I pushed myself to do more than before and completed 6 km.
Running became a regular activity again. I aim to do it three to four days a week, and each run averages about 5.5 km.
Surprisingly, I have noticed some significant benefits after consistently running for almost a month. It has positively impacted my health, work, and energy. Here are my three major benefits of running.
High energy
Running has boosted my energy levels.
I used to feel lazy and unenergized, especially after lunch. The first few days of running were tough. I had to push myself hard, and my legs hurt the next day. I experienced a decline in energy levels at first.
However, a few weeks of running have turned things around.
I don’t feel lazy anymore. I am motivated and have improved my mood to do any task ahead of me.
My energy levels have increased so much that I now do weight training in the morning (I run in the evening because of my work). I’ve also challenged myself to do 100 pushups daily for at least a month.
Better physical and mental health
It’s no surprise that running has significant health benefits. Studies have shown that it strengthens the body and prevents fatal diseases like cancer. Running is also beneficial for fighting cardiovascular diseases that can lead to heart attacks.
I’ve definitely seen the physical changes in my body. For instance,
- my bell fat has declined,
- my muscles have become tighter (especially in the legs area),
- I feel lighter, and
- I look leaner.
Since I’m also lifting weights and doing body workouts in the morning, the changes have happened quicker than I imagined.
Besides the physical benefits, I’ve experienced some mental changes too. For instance,
- I feel calmer,
- I’m motivated to do more,
- I can think better,
- my stress level has declined,
- my sleep has improved,
- my mood is better, and
- I feel optimistic about life.
These are just a few benefits I’ve noticed so far. I’m sure it’s doing more to my health than I’ve experienced.
Increased creativity
The most significant benefit of running I’ve noticed (that took me by surprise) is increased creativity.
As a writer, I need to think of creative ideas consistently.
Before I began running, I struggled with my work. I didn’t have much to write about, got creative blocks often, and couldn’t produce work consistently.
Things have changed now. I write daily and don’t struggle with creative ideas. The exciting part is that ideas and inspiration flow to me naturally. I don’t have to think of them with much effort (like before).
I’m not sure if what I’m experiencing has anything to do with running. I’ve read somewhere that exercise plays a significant role in improving cognitive abilities. Ever since I began running, my creative thinking has improved. So, I think exercising is indeed crucial for your brain.
I also run a creative agency with my partner. Running has helped me improve my client-dealing skills and bring more projects to my company. It may have to do with the increased confidence because of my healthy body and sharp mind.
Other benefits
As I said, running has helped me become calmer. It has helped me in my relationships with my girlfriend and family. I don’t react like I used to when speaking with them, especially when disagreeing. Instead, I listen attentively and respond instead of reacting immediately.
I listen to audiobooks, podcasts, and motivational talks during my run. It has helped me learn more. I’m feeding my brain with knowledge during my hour-long run.
Running (or any form of exercise) is definitely something everyone should incorporate in life. They are indeed beneficial for our health and well-being.
If you have been struggling with physical or mental problems, exercising will help you improve them to a certain extent. Many studies prove it, and I can speak from experience now that I have been running consistently.
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