Just 5-10 Minutes of Running A Day Has Big Health Benefits!

While numerous research studies have been highlighting the many benefits to be gained from leading an active lifestyle, researchers were surprised to find out just how beneficial just a few minutes of running everyday can be to one’s overall health and well-being, as well as the length of their lifespan.

A recent 15-year study, which is published in the Aug. 5 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, discovered that running, even at a slow pace, for just 5-10 minutes a day can add about 3 years onto one’s lifespan (in comparison to those who don’t run at all).

The current US guidelines for physical activity urge people to participate in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercises most days of the week;  which many Americans find too intimidating and takes up too much time that they don’t have to spare due to their busy lifestyles. These new research findings could prove to be instrumental in helping persuade and inspire more Americans to start running.

Compared to those who don’t run at all, the study found that running for just 5-10 minutes a day lead to:

-- A 28% lower overall risk of death

-- A 58% reduced risk of death from heart disease

-- A 45% lower risk of death from stroke

-- A 30% better fitness level

-- Improved heart and lung function

Researchers admitted that they were also somewhat surprised to find out that those who routinely ran less than an hour per week were able to reduce their risk of death just as much as those who ran three hours or more per week. In addition to helping people live longer, running also helps keep you and your joint limber, your muscles strong, and helps maintain balance and stability… all of which can lead to higher quality of life during those extended years.

All these studies re-emphasize the fact that leading a sedentary lifestyle can lead to a shortened lifestyle. Whether you’re a running newbie or an expert, making an effort to run a part of your daily routine – even if you run slowly for just 5-10 minutes a day – can have big benefits for your health and longevity.

While you’re out running, using the ThinQ Pocket Pedometer can help your track the number of steps you’ve taken and the distance you’ve traveled, making it easy to monitor your progress and reach your fitness goals. If friction and chaffing tend to be an issue when you run, check out the Skin Sake Athletic Ointment! If you’re taking a run outside, don’t forget to apply your waterproof sunscreen, like the Coppertone Continuous Sport SPF Spray, which provides ultra sweat-proof protection.

Source:

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_147543.html