My Love Affair with Running
It started in college and never stopped. Why lacing up transports me, and the many benefits running brings to body and mind.
My love affair with running began in college, after I put on the 'Freshman 30.' I had been a competitive figure skater and dancer for over ten years, but I wasn't competing anymore. During my sophomore year, I found a treadmill in the school gym and made it my goal to improve my physical and mental health, and I haven't stopped running since.
I can be tired, overwhelmed, or in a low mood, and as soon as I lace up my sneakers, I'm transported to a different world.
The benefits of running are remarkable: it improves cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure, decreases diabetes risk by helping control blood glucose, builds stronger bones, and can improve joint stiffness and flexibility.
Running also enhances sleep, helps with depression, anxiety, and stress, boosts mood, and teaches resilience and goal-setting. You can do it alone or with a community, and it can help with weight loss.
Just be sure to speak with your physician first about your medical history, especially if you have arthritis, to see whether running is right for you.
Dr. Maggie Cadet, MD