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Run Tom Run!

When many of us start out on our fitness journey, the first thing we do is go out for a run. Running is great exercise, not just for the body but also the mind. Our bodies have literally evolved to be runners. The shape of our hips, our feet, length of our limbs and shock absorbing spine are designed to cope with the stresses of running. Even our ability to sweat so efficiently is there so we can run long distances without overheating.

What are the health benefits of running?

Running targets our cardiovascular system. Better CV fitness equates to lower blood pressure, a stronger heart and increases your lung capacity. All good things at keeping us going well into later life. It burns calories, strengthens your muscles and the impact helps keep your bones strong.

There are benefits to your brain as well. Running will elicit a release of endorphins, those feel good hormones, which is probably the cause of the “runners high” you may have heard about. Just one bout of running will help reduce any stress or anxiety for hours afterwards. When done regularly, exercise improves cognitive performance, brain function, memory and brain volume.

How do I get started?

So there you go, massive benefits. However getting started with running when you’ve not done it for a while can be a miserable experience. Especially if you’re stuck behind a desk most days. So i’ve put together a little training plan that I think will help you get started. Link at the bottom of the page.

The main thing to remember is it needs to be fun, not a chore. If you hate it, you won’t do it. Find ways to fit it around your life. Maybe make it a social thing by inviting a friend along. What about starting at a cafe and doing a loop so you can finish the run off with a nice post exercise coffee. Find a way that works for you!

5k Training Plan