Bang for your buck, the best all around exercise you can do is run. There is no reasonable competition if you consider time, cost, and benefit......... running is the undisputed king of the exercise kingdom. It is a core element in almost every sport and athletic pursuit.
Why is running so great? Firstly it creates more aerobic demand than any other aerobic activity and incorporates an enormous amount of muscle mass. Because it is "weight supported" unlike swimming or cycling, the body is forced to support itself throughout the activity. This increased demand on the skeletal system creates more oxygen demand. In laymans terms, more active muscle needs more oxygen. Therefore the heart is forced to pump harder to supply oxygen to all the working muscles.Secondly, running is very time effective. You can get an excellent workout in half an hour. Simply step out the door, start your engine and there you go! Running needs no special equipment and no gym membership.
Lastly, running has a low environmental impact, you don't need lights, a heated building, or steel dumbbells. It is simple, natural, and satisfying. It also has a very positive effect on mental health, stress reduction, and memory.
Need I go on?
So the short message after a very long intro is to try to incorporate running as an essential element of your overall fitness regimen. Even those who "hate" to run learn to love the benefits of this simple, effective exercise.
Talk soon,
M
