Living with a family whose lifestyle is all about healthy eating and exercise, I have definitely experimented will all sorts of fantastic cardio options for my daily routine. However, one form of cardio that I think is one of the most effective when reaching your fitness goals is running. Now I know that when I mention running, most people don’t respond as enthusiastically about the idea. But there are some serious benefits that you should consider:
1. It’s a stress reliever
This is probably my number one reason why I have taken up running as my main form of cardio this summer. Working at my summer camp, I am constantly faced with stressful situations and by the end of a long work day my brain has completely marinated itself in stress hormones. Since my camp is at a fitness club, I can just walk across the hallway to the gym and start running. As you exercise, your brain releases endorphins, which are the same hormones released when you eat really yummy food or experience love. It makes you feel good! You’d be surprised at how effective exercise is at relieving stress.
2. It can become a fun part of your everyday life
I definitely have some friends who would never consider running fun. But after you get into it, you recognize how great you feel afterwards and the physical benefits you receive from doing it. It becomes more of an activity that you enjoy rather than you feel you have to suffer through. Plus…have you looked at the adorable running sneaker options there are?
I personally own a pair of Nike running shoes that include the Nike ID chip. If you have an iPhone like me you can buy an app that will connect to your chip and act as a GPS and it tells you how fast you run, how far you run, how many calories you burn in a run, and it allows you to connect with other runners in your area. Plus…they come in so many AMAZING COLORS!
3. Running is great to do alone or with a friend
Running is an activity that can be fun and enjoyable to do with a friend, a group, or even just by yourself. For me, running is a great chance for me to have some well-deserved me-time when I am constantly surrounded by people every day. In the midst of being surrounded by my family, my friends, and people at my job, it’s nice to know that at the end of the day I will have an hour or so to myself. This way, running not only benefits your body, but also your mind.
4. Running makes you a better you
By creating a running schedule or even just incorporating running into your fitness regimen a little bit can offer you so many benefits and helps to create a better you. It combines elements of self-discipline, responsibility and commitment, and health consciousness, which, as I said above, benefits you not only physically, but also mentally. I certainly feel a lot more confident in myself and more in control of my body and mind with my 5-day a week running schedule. My dad and I have even signed up for our town’s annual 4th of July 5k.
So I hope you enjoyed this post, and maybe…just maaaaaybe I have convinced you to try some running. Even if you can only go for 10 minutes, do it. Just do it. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.
As always, have a lovely day!
Chic en Chocolat 
