Do you practice running a bit, a lot, sometimes or never? How often, how long or what are the advantages of running on your health?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends to practice at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day. This is the minimum to limit as much as possible cardiovascular diseases, diabete and hypertension. A recent study followed during 15 years more than 55 000 Americans aged from 18 to 100 years, and showed that practicing a physical activity from 5 to 10 min daily is sufficient to increase significantly your life expectancy and reduce the risks to develop cardiovascular diseases.
In average, life expectancy increases by 3 years
This study showed that in average, runners have the benefit to live 3 years more and have 45% less chance to die from a cardiovascular disease than the people who don’t run.
Positive effects even at small dose
Health effects are of course linked to the time you practice. The more you practice a physical activity, better is your health.
But, even if you are the type of person that don’t run a lot, keep in mind that practicing even at a small dose is beneficial compared to the people who don’t practice any running.
Excessive practice is risky
During the time of this study, it appeared that the biggest athletes who run more than 176 mins per week don’t see as much positive effects on their health than the more moderate athletes.
In conclusion…
The important fact about running is to be regular in your efforts. Try to make some 15 to 30 minutes running sessions 3-4 times a week to get the best results health wise.
