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Running is a great way to improve both physical and mental health.

 

The number of calories burned during running can vary depending on several factors, including your weight, speed, terrain, and intensity of the workout. On average, a person can burn between 500 to 700 calories per hour when running at a moderate pace of around 5 miles per hour. However, if you increase your speed or run on hills, you can burn more calories per hour. For example, a person weighing around 150 pounds can burn approximately 680 calories per hour running at a speed of 8 miles per hour. It’s worth noting that the exact number of calories burned during running can be difficult to calculate precisely and can vary significantly depending on individual factors.

 

Some of the main benefits of running include:

 

  1. Improved cardiovascular health: Running is a great form of aerobic exercise that can help strengthen your heart and improve your overall cardiovascular health.
  2. Increased endurance: Running regularly can improve your endurance and help you tackle physical activities with more ease.
  3. Weight loss: Running is a great way to burn calories and can be an effective tool for weight loss when combined with a healthy diet.
  4. Improved mood: Running releases endorphins, which can help improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety.
  5. Better sleep: Regular exercise, including running, can help improve the quality and duration of your sleep.
  6. Strengthened bones and joints: Running can help strengthen bones and joints, reducing the risk of conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis.
  7. Increased lung capacity: Running can help improve lung function and increase lung capacity, which can benefit overall health and athletic performance.
  8. Increased confidence and self-esteem: Achieving running goals can help boost confidence and self-esteem.
  9. Reduced risk of chronic diseases: Running can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke
  10. Improved cognitive function: Running has been shown to improve cognitive function and may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline with aging.

 

Should I cycle instead?

 

Both cycling and running are great forms of aerobic exercise and offer a range of health benefits. Which one is better for you may depend on your personal preferences and fitness goals.

 

Cycling is a low-impact exercise that can be easier on your joints compared to running. It can be a great option for individuals with joint pain or injuries who may find running uncomfortable or painful. Cycling also allows you to cover more distance in less time, which can make it easier to fit into a busy schedule. Additionally, cycling can be a good cross-training option for runners who want to vary their workouts and reduce the risk of overuse injuries.

 

Running, on the other hand, is a weight-bearing exercise that can help improve bone density and promote overall body strength. It can also burn more calories per unit of time compared to cycling, making it a more effective option for weight loss. Running has also been shown to have mental health benefits such as improving mood and reducing stress.

 

In summary, both cycling and running are great forms of exercise, and which one is better for you may depend on your individual goals and preferences. Incorporating both into your exercise routine can offer a range of benefits and help keep your workouts varied and enjoyable.

 

By Mike

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