Douglas “Doug” Stevenson is a construction executive based in Carlisle, MA, with more than three decades of leadership in the New England building industry. He currently serves as president of RBS Limited LLC, where he provides consulting services as a homeowners representative, advising residential and commercial clients on project management, budgeting, and client relations. Outside of his construction work, Doug Stevenson is an avid runner who has completed 12 marathons and hiked all 48 of New Hampshire’s 4,000-foot peaks. His personal experience with long-distance running reflects many of the physical benefits associated with the sport, including improved heart health, better sleep, and reduced joint problems, benefits that are increasingly documented as fewer than half of American adults meet basic aerobic exercise standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Several studies show that many Americans fail to meet basic standards of fitness. Fewer than half of the adults in the United States meet minimum recommendations for aerobic exercise established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and America’s Health Rankings report that about 20 percent of Americans lead physically inactive lives, meaning they do not engage in exercise or physical activity unless it is necessary to their jobs.
Americans interested in improving their physical fitness and aerobic activity levels can engage in various forms of exercise, including long-distance running. Running provides a range of health benefits, and individuals only need comfortable clothes, a pair of running shoes, and a place to run. A person who has access to a treadmill can run year-round, without regard for the weather.
Before exploring the health benefits of running, it is important to understand some potential risks. A large share of running injuries are overuse conditions, including runner’s knee, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles-related problems. These injuries can occur when runners increase mileage too quickly, run without enough rest, or make abrupt training changes.
People who have been inactive for a long period should speak with a healthcare provider before starting a running routine and should build distance gradually. With the right planning, long-distance running can greatly improve overall health.
For the average person, the term “long-distance” means a run that takes at least 10 minutes to complete, though experienced long-distance runners can cover many miles. For some athletes, the goal of running is to complete a distance race, such as a marathon, which covers a little more than 26.2 miles.
Improved heart health is one of the biggest reasons to start running. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, per the CDC, and the American Heart Association reports that almost half of adults experience some degree of heart disease symptoms. Studies show that running on a regular schedule can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and related health conditions.
Chronic lower respiratory diseases are another major health issue in America. Running may also support respiratory function and immune health; Baptist Health notes that people who run for 30 minutes at least five days a week can help support a healthy immune system and respiratory function.
Improved sleep is another health benefit associated with running. Most adults need at least seven hours of sleep each night, and HelpGuide reports that about one-third of adults do not get enough sleep. Sleep supports cell repair, immune function, hormone regulation, and other health processes.
Distance running may help people get more, higher-quality sleep, though runners should avoid exercising too late in the day if it keeps them awake. Running is a high-impact exercise, meaning the body absorbs impact with each stride. Research suggests distance runners tend to have less arthritis and fewer back problems as they age.
Still, people should discuss running with a physician or qualified healthcare professional to determine whether it is appropriate for their body and health history. Running significantly improves the body’s ability to break down food for energy.
An increased metabolism is a considerable benefit, considering that less than seven percent of Americans have optimal metabolic health, according to a Tufts University research team.
Finally, running provides more than physical health benefits. Studies show that long-distance runners also experienced improved mood and memory. Furthermore, running provides individuals with opportunities to meet new people and explore new places.
About Doug Stevenson
Doug Stevenson is the president of RBS Limited LLC in Carlisle, MA, where he provides homeowners representative consulting services focused on project management, budgeting, and client relations. With more than three decades of leadership in New England’s high-end residential construction industry, he previously oversaw company operations, personnel, and marketing initiatives. In MA, he also served multiple terms on the Carlisle Board of Selectmen and dedicated 40 years to the Carlisle Volunteer Fire Department. He holds a bachelor’s degree in physics from Boston College.
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