Simple exercise that can solve complex problems

Simple exercise that can solve complex problems

Road to inner peace | Experts say running can help one reap a host of benefits like controlled blood pressure, reduced risk of diabetes and heart diseases

Run for a healthy mind and body, say city doctors. They insist that running is the simplest exercise which can give one overall benefits. To promote running among women, dna has organised a half-marathon on March 8. Dr Pratit Samdhani, a physician at Jaslok Hospital, said, “Running builds up your immunity and decreases the chance of contracting infection.” He said this activity stretches all body muscles. “If you are an athlete, it improves your heart function. It also increases the capacity of the lung and helps you get a sound sleep.” One can reap a host of benefits like controlled blood pressure, good cholesterol levels, reduced risk of diabetes and coronary diseases just by running, say experts. According to Dr Jalil Parker of Lilavati Hospital, a regular jogger is less prone to allergies, cold and cough. “It is a relaxing form of exercise and helps combat stress apart from boosting the blood circulation.” Be it running or jogging, it’s a great way to shed a few extra kilos, say nutritionists and dieticians. “Running in the open is better than using a treadmill. If you plan to hit the road or a track, start slowly to avoid injuries,” said Dr Subodh Kedia, a family physician from Bandra. Physical benefits apart, running boosts a person’s self-esteem and overall mood, say a recently published international study. “As you run, the body releases hormones and endorphins which make you feel good. This feeling continues even after you are done with the workout,” said Priya Karkera, clinical nutritionist attached to Surana Sethia Hospital. Karkera took part in this year’s Mumbai Marathon and will be running the dna Ican Women’s half-marathon too. “It increases metabolism. But if you are planning to participate in marathon, you need to train for at least need six months.”