This week, I finally was able to get back on track and am feeling better than ever about my runs. When I started the week I had planned on three runs with on HIIT workout, unfortunately work got in the way and I was only able to run twice but still made sure I stuck to completing a HIIT workout as well. For my workout, I decided to download the NIKE training club app and complete their 10 minute HIT: Legs & Core workout. I had no idea how much my body could hurt and sweat in only 10 minutes. This will definitely be something I continue to add into my weekly routine as it really challenged my cardiovascular endurance. I believe if I stick with 1-2 HIIT workouts each week my endurance will increase, aiding me in my runs.
This week I was also able to talk to a few friends and coworkers who have been running for many years now and was able to discuss how running has affected their mental health. My one coworker, who has been running for 6 years and just completed her first marathon in October explained to me how her life has been completely changed by running. She said that before running she was constantly lethargic, depressed, and could never have a good night’s sleep. Since running, her stress levels have decreased, she can sleep over 10 hours a night, and her overall mood and energy levels have increased immensely. Running has also allowed her to develop relationships with members of her community as she is now part of a running group that supports and works together to achieve their goals.
Another friend of mine, has had a similar experience as I have with running. She expressed to me that running allows her to escape from her everyday life and worries. The running sends her into a different state of mind that almost seems like a daydream. It is an hour of her day where she gets to focus on herself and her own mental and physical wellbeing. This is very similar to the same effects that I get from running. I love that it is a time where all I have to think about is running and listening to my music and getting lost on the trails or the path that I am on. I do not have to think about the paper I have due, or that my work schedule is crazy that week, all I have to think about is myself and continuing on my path. While I do love that running has many benefits for my physical health, I believe that the effects it has on my mental will always out weight the physical.
Here is a link to webpage I found that also discusses the effects that running can have on a person’s mental wellbeing: https://www.cigna.com/individuals-families/health-wellness/mental-health-benefits-of-running
