Its natural to feel stressed, especially when the exams are right around the corner. I understand. The next question you would ask is, “What can I do to cope, and reduce my stress level?” That is a simple question with an easy answer- RUN!
Running or jogging for at least 30 minutes, consistently between 3-4 times a week gives the body a good workout, increases one’s immunity and improves blood circulation so that one can stay alert and be in a better position to perform one’s daily activities.
Sometimes we feel that it is a lot of effort to run and exercise, however we fail to realise that we are not maximising our body’s metabolic rate to run. Regular running or jogging not only helps the body to burn calories, it also increases the body’s metabolic rate. When the body’s metabolic rate is increased, it is able to burn more calories at a faster rate and this can be achieved through regular running. This helps one to lose weight effectively and avoid heart-related health problems such as hypertension and heart disease.
Do let me point out that losing weight effectively is important too. Although most of us would like to shed kilos quickly, if it is done too drastically, one is likely to put the weight on just as fast. Hence it is essential to take the right steps towards effective weight loss with a long-term view in mind. With this in mind, being unmotivated to run or making excuses to avoid running should not be an issue anymore!
Consistent training will also get your body used to experiencing and dealing with heat. For those of you who are long distance runners, this is especially important as your bodies need to be able to cope with the heat from the external environment as well as with the heat inside your bodies. I urge everyone to go the distance and discover your potential in running. You never know how far you can go unless you try, and those who try never lose. Instead, they now know what not to do in order to succeed and leap ahead. Running instils in oneself a great form of motivation and self-discipline applicable to many aspects of life.
Ever heard of endorphins? They’re the hormones your body produces when you exercise. Among the widely publicised effects of endorphins is the “runner’s high”, which runners may experience during a particularly intense run. Another effect of endorphins produced in the body is having rosy cheeks – ladies, forget your blusher and go for a run instead!
A natural tendency of students, as exams approach, is to indulge in comfort food. Unfortunately, this results in putting on unnecessary weight which may be tough to lose after the exams and may lower self-esteem. This negative ‘snowball’ effect can be avoided completely by adopting a positive mindset towards one’s studies, and devising an exercise schedule for your good health and self-esteem.
It is essential to be properly hydrated with a sufficient intake of water and isotonic drinks during the course of your training. Isotonic drinks contain essential minerals and salts which are required by one’s body during exercise, and it is essential to replace them after exercise so as to enable one’s body to rest and recover properly, as well as to continue on one’s training schedule.
A comfortable pair of running shoes is essential to avoid running injuries, and appropriate running attire should be worn, prefably made of ‘dry fit’ material to wick away sweat, leaving one dry and comfortable during a run. Also, to aid in a good run workout, please ensure that your last meal is at least 3-4 hours before your run.
Don’t forget to maintain a healthy lifestyle by having 2 servings of fruits and 2 servings of vegetables everyday, as well as taking in the right proportions of proteins and carbohydrates to fuel your run. You may also try having 6 smaller meals in a day instead of the usual 3 large meals as this would evenly distribute blood sugar levels throughout the day, and leave you feeling less hungry.
There is never a better time to start running than now! Don’t worry if you have never trained, or if you are having your first go at a run session. Please join us! Take it easy, enjoy your run and the beautiful scenery.
Having said that we’ll see you at the starting line! J