Running has almost been considered a necessary evil in the world of exercise. Considered by some to be redundant, it is often forgotten that running not only provides cardiovascular benefits but can also play an important role in bone health.
Benefits of Running on Bone Health
1. Running strengthens muscles and increases activity in bones
As you run, the muscles surrounding the bones in your body are strengthened and stretched. This not only makes you stronger and more flexible, but it forces your bones to react by growing. Increased activity can cause a growth of up to 1% per year, which is a lot considering the average person has a growth of 0.5-1% per year without having to exercise.
2. Running is an aerobic activity
The BEST way to get the benefits of a workout without having to spend hours in the gym. Aerobic exercise, such as running, is important for bone strengthening as it involves large amounts of oxygen and using blood vessels to transport it throughout the body. The more oxygen your muscles use up, the more they become stronger and thus better able to withstand stresses on muscles when you are running or walking.
3. Running increases height and speeds up growth
Running can help you add up to 5 inches to your height, possibly more depending on the age of the person running and how long they have been running. The increase in height is possible as a result of the increase in epiphyseal plate length during puberty.
4. Running can be addictive, helping you stay fit
Many people who start running and experience the many benefits tend to become hooked on it and continue running throughout their lives. Studies have shown that runners who become addicted to running lose their appetite and are less likely to experience weight gain than those who are not addicted.
5. Running reduces the risk of osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by porous, fragile bones which can become weak and break more easily. A poor diet contributes greatly to this process, but exercise can also play a big part in helping people ward off the effects of osteoporosis by strengthening bones and increasing activity in muscles.
Conclusion
Running is a great way of strengthening muscles and bones for people of all ages. It allows you to stay in shape, lose weight, and build endurance all at the same time. It may not be something that you would have thought possible from running, but the many benefits of running can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
