(FinancialHealth.net) – Growing older is a natural process and all our bodies will change over time. That being said, the lifestyle choices that are made can speed up or slow down this process.
With endless products making claims to their anti-aging powers, it’s hard to know what does and doesn’t work. Before turning to expensive supplements or fad diets, adults should know that slowing down the aging process could be as simple as running for exercise. Let’s take a look at how it works.
Running Helps Heart Health
Growing older is often linked with the onset of serious, chronic conditions. Studies show that one in 4 deaths are linked to heart disease, making it the leading cause of death in the United States. It’s no secret that running, and other forms of intense cardiovascular exercise, can contribute to improved heart health.
Running can also increase brain function by improving clarity of mind and mitigating memory problems so often experienced in senior adults.
Running and Cellular Aging
There are several exercises that can be adopted to help you look and feel younger, but there’s something unique about the way running affects your health and body. Researchers have found high-intensity interval training and similar activities slow down aging on a cellular level more drastically than strength training.
Running is linked to increased telomerase activity. This is important because this structure located at the end of DNA chromosomes actually plays a big role in protecting chromosomes from deteriorating. So, it appears that runners have a better chance to slow down or even in some cases reverse aging, starting with cellular health.
Running as a Habit
When it comes to taking up running, slow and steady really does win the race! After consulting with a physician, beginning runners may benefit from using an app or set schedule to increase their endurance.
The Couch to 5k app, for example, begins with alternating 60-second runs with 90-second walks. From there, the app slowly increases the length of the runs until the runner can complete a 5k without breaks. For individuals who haven’t run before or haven’t in some time, a beginner’s program can help build confidence and prevent injury.
For adults of all ages, adopting a running routine is a healthy lifestyle change. Here’s to feeling and looking younger, while improving the future of our health, one run at a time.
~Here’s to Your Financial Health!
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