1. Exercise

Many people run to achieve personal fitness goals, lose weight, or stay active. There are a plethora of reasons as to why running is beneficial to the body, but the number one reason is to get a decent amount of exercise. Running involves many of the muscles in your body and allows your range of motion to improve greatly. Increasing your cardio is good for your heart, lungs, muscles, and digestive system.

2. Sweat

Sweating is insanely good for your body because it releases toxins and fluids. When you run, your pores open up and all of the build-up within is released. Sweating can also lead to a decrease in skin problems since the toxins are being released and it gives your body a chance to remove and eliminate a lot of the bad stuff inside. The best part of sweating is when you get to hop into the shower afterward and get nice and clean!

3. Time to Think

Some people listen to music while they run, others just think. Running a long stretch of time when you can get lost in your music and really feel the song. Your feet tap the pavement to the beat and you push farther and harder with each melody. If music isn't on, it's a great time to just think. With crowded days, it's hard to get your personal thoughts organized. If you run, you can double it as a time to get everything in your head sorted out and rationalize all of your thought processes.

4. Improved Mood

Running most definitely makes you happier in the long run. This is due to the fact that during exercise, the brain releases endorphins. Endorphins are hormones that make you feel good, which can contribute to the "running high" that most runners feel at some point in their lives. Plus, it's an added benefit that it may be easier to sleep if exercising tires you out.

5. Improved Muscle Function

Running, or getting exercise in general, helps to make your ligaments, bones, joints, and muscles stronger. Of course, you can get injured from running, but the act of running itself helps to prevent injury in the first place since it makes you a stronger person. Some studies even say that running helps to decrease your chances of developing arthritis in your leg joints!

6. Longer Life

Of course, it takes a healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients as well, but the addition of running can add a few more years to your life. Staying active is the key to living longer because an object in motion tends to stay in motion. If you keep exercising your muscles, your body will thank you.

Running can be extremely hard at times, but the benefits in the end are just too many to pass up. The advantages of leading a healthy and active lifestyle can improve your quality of life and even reverse certain illnesses.