Lily Upton
Humans have always run – whether it was to hunt or escape from beasts. However, nowadays, it’s not about those beasts; it’s more about modern motivations. People run for all sorts of reasons: with their dogs, for their mental health, to get fit or even to just get out of the house!
If this sounds like you and you are thinking of getting into running, you should check out Strava. Strava is a tool reflecting how running has transformed into a lifestyle. You can track your runs, set goals, and, most importantly, connect with the wider running community! Lily Upton’s article explores the physical, mental, and social benefits of running, as well as some of the challenges you may face along the way.
Okay, so what are the physical perks of running?
Well, the well-known health benefits are well documented throughout the media. Running can improve your cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels and help you reach sustainable fitness goals. For example, I started going to the gym earlier this year, focusing mainly on weightlifting. But, as I progressed, I began adding treadmill runs to my routine. While I was a bit inconsistent at first, I can confidently say that ‘runner’s highs’ are real!
Now, I’m slowly getting more into it, with a few bumps along the way, but apps like Strava really help to motivate me by tracking my progress and celebrating milestones. A lot of my friends use Strava not just for running but also for cycling routes, and it’s a great way to track your progress. A friend of mine said that Strava motivated them to complete a marathon without training – how impressive!
Running can improve moods in both males and females, with running subjects having lower mean scores on tension, anger, depression and fatigue!
But can running really help your mental health?
Absolutely! With the overwhelming stress of work, university, and life in general, running can be that much-needed release. It helps with stress, anxiety, and depression by releasing endorphins and giving you mental clarity. Running can improve moods in both males and females, with running subjects having lower mean scores on tension, anger, depression and fatigue! This is especially important with the modern stressors we face – whether that’s looming deadlines, family obligations, or just the pressures of everyday life. A quick trip to the gym or a run during exam season has definitely saved my sanity more than once!
This is just one reason why Strava has grown its user base by 80 million in just five years. Strava’s social features allow you to connect with others, which can really motivate you to keep on going. Personally, I know that if I’m running within a community, I am much more likely to stay committed. And let’s be real – who doesn’t want a friend by their side while they run or go to the gym? That support can do wonders for your mental well-being!
the founder of the London City Runners Club, told NCC that there have been at least 20 marriages between couples who met at his club.
Still struggling to get started?
Well, running is a fantastic way to meet new people – and maybe even find that special someone. You can join a running club, participate in a Parkrun, or use community-building apps like Strava. Personally, I’ve set myself a goal to try the Nottingham Park Run – It’s a fun target to work towards!
Apparently, running is the new dating app… Yes, you read that right! Tim Navin–Jones, the founder of the London City Runners Club, told NCC that there have been at least 20 marriages between couples who met at his club. But why is running better than traditional avenues like bars or dating apps? Unlike swiping on Tinder, running provides a shared hobby that helps form genuine connections. But it’s not just about finding love; running is also a fantastic way to meet new friends and become part of a community.
However, there are safety concerns to consider.
Sadly, the University of Manchester conducted a study and found that 68% of the 498 women who participated had experienced abusive behaviour from running. So what should you do? Run with other people for safety whenever possible! Participating in a Parkrun or a similar group activity is a great way to stay safe. Or, if this doesn’t appeal to you, there are plenty of other ways to stay safe. Using technology like a tracking app on your phone can provide peace of mind. It’s also important to remember that the running community needs to be inclusive and aware of these safety concerns, and we should all make an effort to create a supportive, respectful environment.
So what can running do for you?
Well… it can be a massive transformative force for your physical, mental and social well-being! Also, please don’t worry – running doesn’t require expensive gear or memberships – it’s as simple as stepping outside your door. I know at times I have definitely thought I need all the best gear to start, but you don’t. It’s really that easy to get started! Why don’t you take your first step today? Think about that sense of achievement and community you’ll gain. Whether for fitness, friendship or even finding love, running can open that door to a healthier and happier life!
Lily Upton
Featured image courtesy of Andrew Tanglao via Unsplash. Image license found here. No changes were made to this image.
In article image 1 courtesy of Esteban Bonilla via Unsplash. Image license found here. No changes were made to this image.
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