Running is an exercise that has many benefits, but is it always the best one for you? Many people choose to jog each day and are fit as a result. Running can occur on a track or around town, on a trail or indoors at a gym. There are many places to run and it can be a very rewarding part of your fitness and workout routine.

Running offers many great benefits. One is the cardiovascular factor. Running gets your heart rate up for the duration of the time you are taking part in the activity and keeps it there until you stop. Whether you are a sprinter or prefer long distances, you are bound to build both strength and endurance when running.

Running also builds muscles. You will find your legs getting stronger and will even find you are losing weight after running for even a short period of time. This is another great benefit. Running is good for your heart and leg muscles and can also work your arms. As you run, you can swing your arms and fists back and forth in a pumping motion. This works your arm muscles and helps you run faster by propelling your body forward.

There are, however, a few downsides to running. When you run, you are placing high impact on your legs and knees. You can minimize this by wearing comfortable running shoes that are designed for frequently taking part in the sport. Still, if you aren’t careful, you can place too much pressure on your knees, ankles and feet and can really cause some damage. Make sure you wear comfortable socks and shoes when running to ensure softer impact and a more comfortable step all the way around.

Running alone will not strengthen the other muscles in your body, and should therefore, not be the only aspect of your overall fitness regimen. You must accompany it with other exercises such as sit ups, push ups and stretches.

Be sure to stretch both before and after running. You need to warm up your muscles before stretching so they will move more easily and so they won’t cramp as easily. Upon finishing, you need to cool down and stretching will give them an opportunity to relax.