30 July 2021

Looking for a sure-fire way to relieve stress, increase energy, maintain a healthy weight and build strength? What if I said you could also boost your mood, improve heart health, lower your risk of disease, make friends and support worthwhile causes in your community at the same time?

What is this miracle elixir? It’s running! And best of all, it’s accessible to almost everyone and totally free.

Okay, real talk. We know even the thought of running is enough to deter a lot of people before they’ve begun, but we’ve got some great news. There is no bad time to start, and it doesn’t take a marathon to begin reaping the benefits. In fact, it only takes 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate exercise or 1.25 to 2.5 hours of vigorous activity each week.

So, whether you’re curious about starting off small with a light, occasional jog, or undertaking a regimen to help you achieve a personal best, know that each step is boosting your health — for both body and mind. 

If you’ve ever needed convincing to lace up your shoes and start hitting the pavement, we’re here to help by detailing some of the ways running can change your life.

Maintaining a healthy weight

Running is an excellent way to prevent unhealthy weight gain and assist with weight loss.

A recent Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report showed that two in three adults were overweight or obese, and one in two adults did not participate in sufficient physical activity.

Being active most days, in combination with a healthy diet, will help you lose weight and reduce your risk of chronic disease, including cancer.  

So, if you’re looking for an easy way to make a healthy change, get that heart pumping and burn some calories, start running today.

Mental health and wellbeing

The mental health benefits of running are far-reaching. It boosts mood and memory, improves sleep, and reduces stress.

When you undertake an activity like running your brain releases chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin to improve your mood and reduce stress. That’s right — “runner’s high” is a real thing.

By pumping blood to the brain, exercise can also improve memory and help you think more clearly.

It can combat feelings of loneliness or isolation, protect your brain from injury and disease, and has been proven to assist in the management of mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. On top of all that you’ll sleep like a baby!

Companionship and socialisation

Want to connect with others and build a sense of community? Running is a wonderful way to get outside and get in touch with other people.

Exercising with friends and family — or joining a local running group — are great ways to make your jogs even more enjoyable. As a bonus, committing to a regular exercise schedule with friends will help to keep you accountable and on track to achieving your health goals.

Supporting a good cause

Why not use every kilometre you cover as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for a cause close to your heart?

Running in support of a good cause is a great way to stay motivated and set goals.

Fundraising and awareness events like The Long Run allow you to register as an individual or team so you can share the news with your friends and perhaps start a bit of friendly competition.

If you haven’t yet signed up, you can register here to run, walk or wheel 72km during September.

Saving money

Running is a free, accessible, effective and (almost!) equipment-free activity that you can easily modify to suit your needs.

It can be done individually or as part of a group, at a time that works best for you, and in a setting that you enjoy. 

Get outside, enjoy the fresh air and start exploring!

Hit the road!

Are you sold yet? Great! Only one thing left to do then: sign up for The Long Run, strap on your sneakers and start pounding pavement for a good cause.

Team PCFA