Tie Up the Laces and Run!

Popularity of health and fitness blogs, videos, shows, magazines, books and products have soared within the past few decades, indicating improving in promotion from governments, education in schools and a match in cost of supply and demand. Here in Canada, youths are taught about the food guide and physical activity recommendations. Workplace wellness programs are on the rise, including walks, exercise spaces, sports clubs and mental health awareness. Subsidies for gyms, recreation centers and flexible membership plans increases accessibility. Research into chronic diseases have led to the realization that prevention is better than treatment. While all these points are great, and there are a lot of guides and consumer products, the truth is that diabetes, obesity epidemic and fast food cravings are not going away any time soon. Also be wary of the food and pharmaceutical industry sponsoring biased research. High motivation will help you push through and ignore tempting products, however, the easiest, cheapest and most effective path I recommend is running.

My passion for running is influenced by my parents, coaches and just how much freedom it brings. I have been on cross country teams both in junior high and high school (6 years), tried Running Room classes, and is continuing to participate in MEC race series events. The ultimate dream is marathon, but now I am very comfortable around 10K.

What you need:

• Good pair of running shoes (Running Room have assessments for foot/run/walk style), $50-150

• Playlist as needed, the bpm should not be so high as to encourage you to sprint

• App as needed, if you are not familiar with trials - but really just start and go around the block

Really, shoes are all that is required. This cardio workout will build endurance, burn calories, is free, no pressure from other gym members, and allows you to enjoy the community parks, the fresh air and nature better. Treadmill? A viable option only if conditions get slippery - as it is less requires less mental power, endorphins, as the belt carries your next step. After the run, use body weight exercises and stretches to cool down. Be sure to feed on electrolytes and proteins- nothing expensive. Examples include greens, bananas, yogurt, nuts, eggs and lean meats. 8 glasses of water a day (2L) is constant, so that means before, during and after the run, especially when it's long distance. When you sign up for races, you will find a whole group of like minded runners. There are countless other posts, videos and products out there, but the best remedy is to make today your day one. Remember, you are your own benchmark, so beat old self, not the race winner.

So what are you waiting for? Tie up the laces and Run!

Cheers,

Kelly

#Running #Fitness #Lifestyle #Race #Exercise #Health #Lifestyle