Jogging, sprinting, racing...
However you like to run, make 2023 the year it goes from a rarity to a routine.
Sometimes though the hardest part can be pulling your trainers on and leaving the house. That’s why we’ve listed 12 stellar reasons to get you running in 2023.
1. Support a good cause by running for them
Do you have a charity close to your heart? Well, starting to run can quickly become a fantastic way to support them.
By getting sponsored for races or even by applying for a charity place in longer runs, you can raise money and awareness for them (especially if you’re willing to don a fun costume!).
2. Running is great for fitness
This may seem like an obvious one - we all know that running improves your general fitness - but here are 3 specific ways your body will thank you for running regularly:
- Improved cardiovascular system - endurance training reduces your heart rate
- Better memory - it can increase the volume of the hippocampus (part of your brain associated with memory)
- Strong bones - build stronger bones to decrease frailty and stress fractures
Just make sure that you run with the correct form so as to not damage your knees!
3. It improves your mental health
As well as physical health, regular running has consistently been proven to improve mental health - from relieving symptoms of anxiety or depression to promoting better sleep.
At Family Holiday Charity, we love to see how prioritising mental health is a growing trend in 2023 and beyond. Our end goal is to build confidence, happy memories, and hope for the future for families through fantastic holidays.
4. Running is an inexpensive hobby
Running is a great hobby to pick up in 2023 because you don’t need to spend any money to start (which is always welcome in January!).
5. Exercise is a reason to get out of the house
In the colder months, we all love a cosy day spent indoors. But by day 5 on the sofa, it may be time for a change of scenery.
Going for a run is a great excuse to force yourself outside, whether you’re training for a longer race or just blowing off the cobwebs on a jog. Bonus - home will feel even cosier once you’ve been outside.
6. Meet new people through running in 2023
You may think that jogging along is a solo activity, but it can actually be rather social (if you want it to be!). There are plenty of ways to make new friends in 2023 through running:
- Join a running club to meet people who share the hobby
- Do a 5k Saturday morning parkrun and start your weekend socially and productively
- Sign up for a charity place on a run and get to know teammates running for the same cause (like our wonderful #HolidayHeroes!)
7. Have some ‘you’ time when jogging
That being said, if you’re in need of some quality alone time, going for a run is a fabulous excuse to get away from it all.
Take some ‘you’ time to mull over your own thoughts, listen to your favourite music or totally switch off as you pound the pavement - you deserve it!
8. Exercise gives you an energy boost
Have you ever noticed how after you’ve come in from a run and shower, you’re raring to go?
Though it may sound counterintuitive, getting out and going for a run can actually increase your energy levels, especially if you’ve been feeling a little lethargic lately.
9. Feel great after a run
As well as that energy boost, there are plenty of reasons why running puts you in good spirits.
There are physical effects, such as stress relief when you’re running (due to increased blood circulation to the brain) or ‘runners high’ afterwards when feel-good biochemicals flood your brain and body.
But other things, like completing a race or beating your own personal best can give you a gratifying sense of achievement.
10. Stay outdoors in 2023
Who knows what 2023 will bring, but running has consistently been an activity free of restrictions or lockdowns over the past few years.
Plus, it’s a great option for those wanting to build fitness into their routines, but have concerns about being indoors (such as in a gym or sports centre).
11. Take your dog on your run
If you have a four-legged friend, kill two birds with one stone by giving your dog their daily exercise by taking them on your run with you.
12. Smash your own expectations in 2023
Finally, one of the best things about running is being able to set a goal for yourself and then work hard to achieve it.
Whether that’s sticking to a weekly routine or beating your personal best, racing in a 3km or completing a marathon, whatever your goal there can be a huge sense of personal achievement when running.
What’s your running goal for 2023?
Inspired to give running a go? It can be hard to get out of the house but once you get into a running routine, the benefits are brilliant.
Run for a charity in 2023
If you’re looking for a running goal for 2023 to train towards, we have charity places at several big-name races including the Great North Run, London Marathon and Royal Parks Half Marathon.
It’s a great way to secure your spot in the most famous runs across the country. Find out more here.