Whatever your age and level of practice, running has many benefits on the body: it is good for your health. Many people exercise regularly in order to progress, to run faster or further. Yet, beyond the competition aspect, you must remember that running is a great way to add years to your life.

A new study published in Progress in Cardiovascular Disease, a peer-reviewed medical journal showed that running significantly reduced an individual's risk of premature death by almost 40 percent. This is applicable to different age groups, including smokers, drinkers and people with a history of health conditions like obesity and hypertension.

Running has a major role to play in the fight against cardiovascular diseases, especially when considering the ravages of a sedentary lifestyle. In fact, physical activity practiced in moderate intensity protects against other diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. Nevertheless before you start, it is imperative to consult your doctor and to have a supervised practice, especially if you already suffer from some of these conditions.

Running requires the activation of many muscles of the human body. The muscles used during exercise become stronger over time. This limits the risk of back pain. The heart muscle also benefits and works better by the pumping more efficiently.

Incremental life expectancy benefits

Researchers in the Cooper Institute study discovered that jogging provides a surefire way to return more time to an individual's longevity. They calculated the gains, hour for hour and figured out that taking to the road at least two hours per week translated to six months of running over a period of 40 years. At this rate, an individual adds approximately 3.2 years in terms of life expectancy with a net gain of roughly 2.8 years.

In other words, every hour you spend jogging contributes at least seven hours to your life expectancy. However, researchers noted that the increments are not infinite, which means joggers should not expect to become immortal. There is a cap in life expectancy gains.

Creating a balance

More importantly, jogging improves the body's balance and flexibility, and reduce the likelihood of developing cancer or neurodegenerative diseases. This form of exercise is simple and accessible to all. The calories needed for the effort also promote the regulation of body mass. At first, running can boost weight loss. Thereafter, regular physical activity will further maintain an ideal weight while strengthening and sculpting the body.

The psychological effects of jogging are numerous; it stimulates vitality and the joy of living. The secretion of endorphins during exercise is not a legend, the running promotes a good mood. The effects can be visible several hours after training.

It is widely regarded as a natural antidepressant. However, it should not be perceived as a crutch, but simply as an additional element that contributes to the balance of the runner. The arguments in favor of running are numerous. In addition to being good for health, it would even allow you to live longer.

Before donning your running shoes, do not hesitate to consult your doctor for a check-up that will surely allow you to start the running.