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Is Running the best way to improve Your Health?

By AdventHealth Staff

Running can be invigorating — the wind in your hair, the rhythmic thump as your feet hit the pavement, the feeling of accomplishment when you’ve reached your goal — it’s exciting and refreshing. But did you know that running may be the best way to improve your health.

Find inspiration and motivation for your next run while learning different ways running can benefit your health.

Running Reduces Your Risk of Heart Disease

You may feel your heart pumping and your heart rate going up as you run. But don’t worry, this can actually improve your heart health. Running for at least 10 minutes a day can significantly lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. According to the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, running can reduce your risk of death from cardiovascular disease by 45%.

Running helps improve blood pressure, HDL (good) cholesterol and blood sugar sensitivity. It also lowers your resting heart rate, an important indicator of your overall health and fitness. The lower your heart rate, the more efficient and healthy your heartbeat!

Running Improves Your Knee, Back and Joint Health

If you’re an avid runner, you may hear people say to “watch your joints” while you run, but a study of 675 marathon runners found lower arthritis and better joint health than people who don’t run regularly. In addition to better joint health, high-impact exercises (like running) spur bone growth and promotes healthy bone mineral density. As you get older, running is a great way to keep you moving and strong if you want to avoid fractures and stay mobile.

Running Reduces Your Risk of Cancer

Multiple studies have shown that regular exercise lowers the risk of certain cancers. According to the National Cancer Institute, running and other cardio-related exercises may decrease your risk of bladder, breast, colon, endometrial and gastric cancers. While other factors such as family history and health factors play a large role in your risk of cancer, putting on your running shoes and going for a jog can protect your long-term health and reduce your risk.

Running Improves Your Sleep

A good night’s rest is essential for your overall health. Researchers at John Hopkins Medical Center found that running can help you fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality. However, try to avoid running too late in the day as aerobic exercises, like running, trigger a release of endorphins that activate your brain and might keep you away. If you’re looking to improve your sleep quality, go out for a quick run in the morning or early afternoon and feel the stress melt away.

Tips for Running Safely and Healthily

With so many great health benefits, you may be thinking about hitting the trail for a quick jog right about now. Be sure to run safely to prevent injuries or overworking yourself. Here are some tips to keep your running safely:

  • Don’t run right after eating
  • Don’t turn up your music too loudly; make sure to stay alert and aware of what’s around you
  • Drink plenty of water before, during and after your run
  • Take regular breaks and listen to your body
  • Tell someone where you plan to run and when you expect to be back
  • If you get injured, stop running and get medical care right away

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your run and have peace of mind that you’ll stay safe while improving your health.

Keeping You Running

Whether you’re looking to improve your daily runs or injured yourself while on a jog, AdventHealth is here to keep you running. At AdventHealth Sports Med and Rehab, they provide compassionate care to help you get back in your running shoes. For more information or to find a doctor, click here.  Are you looking for other people to run or walk with? Check out our Wednesday night group at https://godashsports.com/events/.

Dash Run Group on a Wednesday night
I had a very good experience buying shoes for walking and exercise classes at Dash Sports. A salesperson could see an issue with the shoes I was wearing, measured my feet, and founds shoes that were narrow enough in the heel and still wide enough for my toes. I ended up with a pr of Brooks that are both comfortable, give plenty of support, and attractive. I certainly recommend Dash for anyone wanting custom fit and great shoes, especially at a locally owned store.
Great service from a personable staff. I knew exactly what Brooks shoe I wanted, which was quickly brought out with no up-selling. Terrific local business.
Jami took an extended period of time to “fit” me for my perfect running shoes. I was able to try on many pairs and brands. I can tell she treats every client with that level of attention and professionalism. Not your typical shoe store. The prices weren't higher than other suppliers. Now I’ll never go anywhere else.
Dash Sports is always a friendly and professional shop to visit! Becky helped me out and fitted me in some running shoes and house shoes lol! she is super sweet and was very patient - definitely a no-pressure staff that wants the best for you and your wallet! Locally owned and operated to boot!
Loved my experience. Gina was great. She helped me find the right shoes! The staff member who helped my wife was likewise terrific. Will shop at the Clermont store again for sure.
Annette was so awesome! I was looking to get a new pair of running shoes for a marathon I’m running in September. She took the time to try on a large amount of shoes to find the perfect fit to keep me healthy and safe during my training. I told her she was a lifesaver and I really mean it. I’ve been running for over two months now and the shoes are performing amazingly! Thank you so much Annette :-)
What a great find thanks to my friend who is already a customer. I had been having foot pain since we started walking regularlya d she said, “ You have to go to Dash” and was she right!!! I was really impressed by the questions the salesperson, a young man, who asked me several questions to determine what I needed in a good walking shoe. He fitted me with a wide shoe that will alleviate the pain in my metatarsal area. He was so knowledgeable and made sure I selected the shoe I felt was the most comfortable.

I will be going back for sandals. The selection is great and very fashionable looking with good orthopedic features.

Thanks DASH!!!!
True running store - great selection and inventory of shoes and gear/products specific to running. Also a wide selection of quality casual shoes. The rewards/points program helps to take the sting out of the cost of new shoes :). Looking forward to visiting the Winter Garden location!!
Sorry, I didn’t get the Lady name that helped me, very knowledgeable and helpful. Hopefully these Brooks shoes help me
Bought a pair of sneakers today. Excellent fitting and service by Becky. Finally have a pair that fit correctly. I’ll be back for my next pair with this quality fitting and shop. Wish Dash sold golf shoes. I would have bought another pair for sure.
Winter Garden, FL