At the end-of-year evaluations, our entire unit would be taken out to the field for a 3-kilometer cross-country run. The ground was uneven, covered with rocks—it was truly a tough challenge. Even so, the army never gave up on our daily workouts. Why is that?
Running is the simplest form of exercise in daily life, yet many people can’t stick with it. In fact, the benefits of running are numerous. As long as you keep at it, your body will reap many rewards. Below, let me tell you about the benefits of running for the human body.
Benefits of Long-Term Running
1. Eyes
People who consistently run long distances spend about an hour each day looking into the distance. This is great relaxation and rest for the eyes. If you have school-age children at home, getting them to run every day can definitely reduce their chances of developing myopia.
2. Neck, Shoulders, and Spine
Those who sit in front of computers often experience some neck or shoulder issues. Proper running posture requires keeping your back straight and relaxed. Consistent running over time can greatly improve discomfort in the cervical spine and shoulders.
3. Heart
Consistent running gives you a strong heart and cardiovascular system. While increasing your maximal oxygen uptake, it also significantly boosts the amount of oxygen delivered to all organs, naturally improving their performance. Additionally, middle- and long-distance running accelerates blood circulation, ensuring the coronary arteries supply enough blood to the heart muscle, thus preventing various heart diseases. The movement of the lower limbs also promotes venous blood flow back to the heart, helping prevent blood clots in the veins.
4. Blood
With a strong cardiovascular system, runners also have better blood quality. The body’s adaptive changes from long-term middle- and long-distance running can improve metabolism and lower levels of blood lipids and cholesterol.
5. Lungs and Respiratory System
Long-term middle- and long-distance running strengthens lung function and increases lung capacity. Regular, sustained running develops the respiratory muscles in the lungs, increases the volume of air exchanged with each breath, and enhances lung function. Personally, I used to suffer from seasonal allergies every autumn—it was really miserable—but since I started running this year, it hasn’t recurred. I wonder if there’s a connection?
6. Liver
During a medical check-up, the doctor called over an intern and said, “Come take a look—this is what a healthy liver looks like. The blood vessels and patterns on the surface are clear. You don’t see this often anymore.” Running helps eliminate fatty liver, which has been proven effective among many runners.
The benefits of running take time to show—so don’t give up easily. Keep it up, and you’ll see the changes in your body.