Running: How Much / How Fast is Beneficial ?!

Greetings Healthy, Happy Friends!

So, last week we talked about the many benefits of walking ….

Moving on this week, we get into running – as I am sure many of you may run/jog at times, or you have run in the past. I used to run/jog 40-50 miles per week, and I often enjoyed the endorphin rush people get during a nice run/jog. These days, I do not run too much – except maybe on a tennis court, or doing some sprints once a week or so, or maybe some very light, easy jogging in the park. I believe, and much evidence shows, that I can still get “cardio” benefits from my regular strength training sessions and/or HIIT – High Intensity Interval Training.

This Tedx Talk features Dr. James O’Keefe, a cardiologist in the U.S. –
It is 18 minutes long, so I hope you can find that much time sometime soon, to watch and learn some interesting things about running.

“The fitness patterns for conferring longevity and robust lifelong cardiovascular health are distinctly different from the patterns that develop peak performance and marathon/superhuman endurance. Extreme endurance training and racing can take a toll on your long-term cardiovascular health. For the daily workout, it may be best to have more fun and endure less suffering in order to attain ideal heart health.”

As I have mentioned several times in previous posts, my main goal is to live long and live healthy – for as many years as possible. I am basically moving/exercising for longevity, which is different than training for peak fitness. My current level of overall weekly exertion is enough to keep me in an optimal conditioned state. For all of you runners out there, I know that many of you are consciously supplementing your training with strength workouts, stretching or activities like yoga. That is highly commendable. And for you “non-runners,” remember last week’s post and keep walking as much as you can. AND, when possible or the opportunity presents itself (not likely here in BKK), go for a hike up and down some nice hills. For me, going for a nice, long hike is my favorite form of exercise – more coming on hiking/trekking benefits soon ….

Please take some time to watch this Tedx Talk, and as always, feel free to send any questions/comments/concerns regarding the content.

If you do go out for a run or jog this weekend, think about going a bit slower and for a shorter distance also …. if you believe this message from Dr. O’Keefe, that is ….

GR​OK ON !