Five Ways Distance Running Can Connect You to More Sanity
Ever considered upping your personal fitness goals? Have you ever thought about running longer distances? Maybe even completing a marathon? You may have read about the benefits of running and fitness for kids in this article . Today, Tara Lord and Kristen Long, both moms and teachers, join us again to share the benefits of distance running to both your health and sanity. I’ve also shared some affiliate links for running shoes that I have used and really like.
1. Self-motivation.
“Lots of people run but the only competitor that really matters is YOU,” said Kristen, owner of Run Mama Run, a clothing line for runners. “Completing a race, no matter the distance, is a huge accomplishment. Beating your personal record during training is an accomplishment in and of itself.”
“Completing marathons allowed me to see how strong I really could be,” said Tara.
Seeing your own power makes it easier to get through tougher, more stressful times.
2. Distance Running is great for families.
“I want my kids to grow up seeing that fitness and health are important. If they’re along with me whether running or in a stroller, they’ll see that,” said Kristen.
Tara agrees. “Through running, not only am I proud of myself for setting goals and sticking to them, I’m showing my daughter the importance of self-discipline.”
Generally, long distance races have shorter “fun runs” for children and other family members to try. That way the whole family can participate. Besides, running wears little people out, making a nice post-run family nap an option. Sleep is an amazing sanity saver.
3. Healthy Lifestyle.
Distance running is a fantastic way to lose a few pounds. Aside from the cost of good shoes, you don’t have to pay for expensive equipment or a gym membership.
“Running has really helped me keep my weight under control,” said Tara.
We all tend to feel more sane and in control when our clothes fit, now don’t we?
4. Connecting with other runners
Running is a great way to meet new people and connect with old friends. Tara and Kristen had gone to high school together and reconnected once they had kids.
“We would run along together, both of us pushing a stroller,” said Tara. “It was a great opportunity to get fit and talk.”
Venting and running? Sign me up…
5. State of Mind
Like most teacher-moms, Tara has to work to achieve balance. “Running keeps me grounded,” she said. “It’s time for a mental break.”
Kristen agrees. “Some people need to run like others need coffee. I do get that itch to go running. It just makes you feel so much better after.”
So there you have it. Now you have some motivation to pull your old running shoes out of your closet and hit the road. Imagine how great that nap will feel when you’re done!
It’s great when you find something that keeps you grounded and balanced. In this fast paced world these time-outs for ourselves and our families are so important! This blog post makes me wish I was a regular runner 🙂 who knows!
Staying grounded is so hard with all I’ve got going one! Exercise helps! Give it a whirl and see how it works for you! Thanks for stopping by!
I’ve recently got into running though at the moment it’s still very small distances but it still helps me hugely if I’m having a bad day x
Sophia x http://sophiawhitham.co.uk
Small distances are great! It’s good to hear that you’re enjoying positive mental benefits! Thanks for stopping by!
These are great points on way people should not only start running but exercising in general!
Exercising is as great for the brain as it is for the body! Thanks for visiting!
I’ve recently started running and It’s amazing the effect it has on my mood. I was inspired by my mother in law who ran the London marathon, it’s definitely something I’d like to say I could achieve one day. Great post, Keep on training 😉
What an inspirational mother-in-law! That’s a great goal. Not sure if I’ll ever do a marathon, but I like to consider it. Thanks for commenting!
Hi,
Nice share, I totally agree on this point !!
Thanks so much!
I used to run alot but I was forced to by two ex boyfriends but have thought about taking it up myself. It makes a big difference when you’re not forced to LOL!!!
Ugh! Forces running? Ew! It’s definitely worth taking it up on your own, though! Have fun, and thank you for stopping!
I’ve never been a fan of running but I totally see the benefits you can get. I think with every sport you do you can use it as a way of keeping you sane ;). My preferred way is Pilates.
Lea, xx
Pilates would really help me, too. I really need to look into it. I also like yoga for the mind as well as muscular benefits. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
I miss running because it actually relaxes me. I need to get back at it!
I’ve been back at it this week. I am so much easier to live with when I exercise! It also helps me write! Thanks for visiting!!
As a runner I love this post and can really relate!
Awesome! So glad you stopped by! Happy running!