I was just thinking about the benefits I’ve noticed since I’ve been running (better mental health, stronger legs, a sense of community and more self confidence) and I thought I’d start a thread.....have you noticed any changes yet? If so, what have you found? How does running help YOU?
What does running do for YOU?: I was just... - Couch to 5K
What does running do for YOU?
![Beany123 profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/d8753af618cb433aae7951cd0aa29701_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
![Beany123 profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/d8753af618cb433aae7951cd0aa29701_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
![Bazza1234 profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/33781df2c54e98b8f5de62275e03d0d5_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
I started running six years ago at age 67 - did C25k in 2014 . I recently completed my first marathon at age 72 - I have done around 170 parkuns , a number of other events , 10K, 10 miles, HM's. I feel like I have now finished with the road "races" I did my first trail run 11Ks a few weeks ago - walked the uphills with the aid of trekking poles, ran the downhills where safe to do so, run/walked the flats ( where also safe to do so) - had a lot of fun over the 2 hours. My life has been completely changed - I now mix with a whole new group of people -positive, accepting, ALIVE!!!!!
![Grannyhugs profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/db268a05ff22b1149ddb16d2efe2666f_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
Enjoy a new sport with hubby, feel fitter, look forward to covering lovely new routes, sore butt 😀
Great that you run together. My partner is too fast for me (most people are 😂) so I tell him to go ahead at parkrun (which we do together).
![Oldfloss profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/105fc46b2ead0530d0e1540d94760674_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
Running...keeps me; happy....calm...healthier...creative...aware...fitter...stronger...
Started at 65..first HM..69...next booked..
Not the only thing in my life...but a huge part of it..keeps me feeling ..me!
I agree. I suffer from bipolar type 2 (mainly depression) and it’s mostly controlled by meds. But the running helps immensely. I’m calmer and view everything from a better perspective after a run. After an evening run, I am also more energetic and productive the following day at work!
Keep strong and calm. Glad you’ found running to be so helpful.
I will! It’s definitely made more of a difference to my self belief and energy levels than any meds have!
Just don't stop the meds please 👍hope you have loads of happy runs through the autumn and winter months
![Portlandprincess profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/4e8e82a6f12d83f9b3fd57a551f049ab_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
I'm just deciding to go for it. Here on blogs for the inspiration to get on and do it
I gained a waist again! AND I feel my mental health is stronger. I’m proud of myself for completing couch to 5k and my goal of regularly running at my local park run. During the 9 months Ive been running I’ve enjoyed seeing the seasons change and watching the duckling and goslings grow up (I generally run alongside the canal).
![Redcat19 profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/00e7511d1756df5d7b2120400f9d6983_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
For me i feel happier, and a sense of achievement. My legs are stronger and toned. My blood pressure and resting heart rate has reduced and I generally feel fitter all round 🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️
![Runrabbit50 profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/f86f6227a57bdade537e5a5d9b224133_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
Love running that feeling after is amazing and the self challenge is such a good goal to do further to be fitter 🏃🏻♀️🏋️♀️
![Wenderwoo profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/4a28a3cc42498a7fbcb13ec84a992677_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
I’m yet to find out (W1R2 later today), but looking forward to the positives after reading the great posts on here!
![Buddy34 profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/e08785ae53ff79fd7e4b23dae08aa3f3_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
Obviously being so much fitter and healthier .
Positive outlook
Love running outside no matter what the weather .
I've lost 3 1/2 stone
😊😊😊😊🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️
Wow Buddy34, I am looking forward to seeing some body changes in myself! I’m definitely getting stronger! Well done to you xxx
I cut out my addiction to chocolate and started brisk walking then running. It took over a year . I had more patience this time 😊
![tiggs1 profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/94a35069e84c22d00468cc9bdcd367f6_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
I have more self-confidence and self belief.. I feel healthier and I love the way I feel alive!
That’s what life’s all about isn’t it?
It certainly is, i have also stopped smoking since starting C25K (5 1/2 weeks now) and I know I am going to succeed.
![GoGo_JoJo profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/6d924777dbd1d7fb3d6688af8e0c9130_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
Better overall fitness, mental health and weight much more stable. Its also helped me become more in touch with, and better able to control my emotions and anxiety (mostly).
A greater appreciation for nature and our planet in general.
Weirdly I have more energy as ac result rather than as I would have thought, less.
Improved self esteem and confidence.
I agree. I love being out in nature. My kids love it too. We as humans need it I am adamant about it. Have a treadmill at home and haven’t bothered with it at all really since I’ve been running outside. I even like running in the rain. When you’ve got the right clothes on it’s not a problem. I am a bit achey this week though so I am not as energetic as you!!